CDT, alongside the Committee to Protect Journalists and over 30 other organizations, has urged the United States to uphold press freedom following a recent executive order by President Trump. The order, issued on March 14, calls for the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) to be "eliminated to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law." This move is part of efforts to streamline federal bureaucracy.
USAGM is a federal agency responsible for overseeing various broadcast entities such as Voice of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. These entities have been crucial in delivering news to regions under authoritarian rule. Concerns have been raised that dismantling USAGM could weaken global democratic efforts.
The joint statement emphasizes, “it is vital that Congress protect USAGM, ensure the safety of its affiliate journalists, and reaffirm the U.S. government’s commitment to a free and independent media at home and abroad.”
The full letter from these organizations can be accessed online.