National Press Club Statement on Mass Suspensions at Voice of America

WASHINGTON, March 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- National Press Club President Mike Balsamo today issued the following statement after reports that large numbers of Voice of America journalists have been placed on indefinite leave, just a day after the White House ordered a significant downsizing to VOA's parent agency, the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM):

"The mass sidelining of Voice of America journalists, coming just hours after an order to gut its parent agency, raises urgent questions about the future of one of the world's most important independent news organizations. This isn't just about cutting an agency — it's about whether VOA can continue its mission at all.

For decades, Voice of America has delivered fact-based, independent journalism to audiences worldwide, often in places where press freedom does not exist. Removing large numbers of its journalists at the same time as dismantling USAGM threatens the very foundation that has allowed VOA to operate without political interference.

If an entire newsroom can be sidelined overnight, what does that say about the state of press freedom? This move not only puts VOA's credibility at risk but also undermines America's long-standing commitment to a free and independent press.

These suspensions come amid growing concerns over press freedom, including the earlier suspension of Steve Herman, a veteran journalist and member of the National Press Club Board of Governors. His removal weeks ago was widely viewed as politically motivated, and now, VOA as a whole faces an even greater disruption.

Steve Herman's suspension was a warning sign. Now, an entire institution is being dismantled piece by piece. This isn't just a staffing decision — it's a fundamental shift that endangers the future of independent journalism at VOA.

The National Press Club urges Congress and the public to demand transparency and accountability regarding these mass suspensions and to ensure that Voice of America remains an independent, fact-based news organization — free to do its work without interference.

About the National Press Club
Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world's leading professional organization for journalists. The Club has more than 2,500 members representing nearly every major journalism organization. The Club and its Press Freedom Center are leading voices on press freedom matters in the U.S. and worldwide.

Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the Press Freedom Center at the National Press Club

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SOURCE National Press Club