Radio Free Asia Layoffs Due to Funding Cuts

SOURCE www.npr.org
Radio Free Asia is laying off 90% of its staff and shutting down many language services due to funding cuts by the Trump administration. This move threatens the broadcaster's ability to shine a light on issues in repressive societies.

Key Points

  • Radio Free Asia facing mass layoffs and shutting down language services due to funding cuts by the Trump administration.
  • President Trump ordered U.S. Agency for Global Media to wind down operations to reduce unnecessary governmental entities.
  • Federal judge ordered reinstatement of funds and employees for RFA and MBN, but a D.C. appeals court granted a stay.
  • Only a skeleton crew remains at RFA to continue limited programming.

Pros

  • Radio Free Asia has been instrumental in broadcasting to audiences in repressive societies for decades.

Cons

  • Mass layoffs and shutting down language services threaten the ability to report on important issues.
  • The Trump administration's funding cuts have severely impacted the broadcaster's operations.