US journalists sue to protect Voice of America from political control

2026-03-24 - 05:10

WASHINGTON: Journalists at the US government-funded broadcaster Voice of America (VOA) have filed a lawsuit accusing the Trump administration of undermining the outlet’s independence and turning it into a tool for political messaging. The complaint, filed on Monday in the US District Court in Washington, focuses on VOA transmissions to audiences in Iran, China, North Korea, and Kurdish regions, alleging that coverage now reflects White House talking points rather than objective reporting. VOA, established during World War II to showcase press freedom and provide reliable news to populations with limited access to independent journalism, is facing strict internal control. According to the lawsuit, Trump loyalists placed in key editorial positions have directed what is reported, including limiting coverage of civilian casualties from US military actions and requiring pre-approval for all guest appearances on Persian, Kurdish, and Afghan services. The US Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which oversees VOA, defended its position, stating that taxpayer money should support broadcasts that reflect US policies and the interests of the American people. The dispute reflects broader tensions between journalists and the Trump administration, which has favored friendly media outlets that largely avoid critical reporting, including at the Pentagon. In a related development, US District Judge Paul Friedman ruled last week that parts of the Trump administration’s changes to the Pentagon’s press policy were unconstitutional, calling them a form of viewpoint discrimination. He also reinstated press access for seven New York Times journalists, noting that the Pentagon’s new restrictions had led to a walkout by reporters who refused to accept sweeping limits on their reporting. The lawsuit is supported by organisations including PEN America and Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Clayton Weimers, Executive Director of RSF North America, said: “The court has reaffirmed what we knew all along: Donald Trump and Kari Lake’s attempt to dismantle VOA and USAGM was illegal.” He added that the fight was not over, claiming that the Trump administration wants to turn VOA into a political propaganda machine, which is at odds with VOA’s mission to provide reliable information to those who lack access to credible journalism. “We are continuing this fight because we believe that everyone deserves access to trustworthy news, and we’re proud to stand beside our co-plaintiffs in this case,” Weimers said, urging the administration to let VOA’s journalists return to their jobs. The plaintiffs emphasised the global importance of VOA: “Through VOA’s journalism, those living in authoritarian societies get a taste of democracy. Without editorial integrity, VOA will be no different than government mouthpieces our audiences already hear in their own country.” The case highlights growing concerns over press freedom in US government-funded media and raises questions for international audiences about the reliability of outlets designed to provide independent journalism abroad.