The Lawfare Podcast
Lawfare Daily: Tom Kent on the Dismantling of American Government Broadcasting
Mar 25, 2025
Tom Kent, former head of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and a seasoned expert on Russia, delves into the recent executive order that threatens American government broadcasting. He highlights the strategic importance of organizations like Voice of America in countering misinformation and promoting U.S. interests globally. Kent discusses how budget cuts and policy changes pose significant risks to media credibility. He emphasizes the vital role of effective communication and the need for reform to address inefficiencies and biases within U.S. international broadcasting.
41:36
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Quick takeaways
- The dismantling of U.S. international broadcasters like Voice of America undermines their vital role in providing credible news to regions with limited free press.
- Recent executive orders have raised significant concerns about the operational future of these broadcasters, impacting their ability to counter misinformation and maintain global diplomatic functions.
Deep dives
Understanding the Role of U.S. International Broadcasters
U.S. international broadcasters like Voice of America and Radio Free Europe play crucial roles in disseminating news to audiences in regions where free press is limited. These organizations operate differently under the U.S. Agency for Global Media, with some agencies being government employees while others are private entities. Their primary function revolves around providing credible news to populations cut off from objective reporting, helping to counteract misinformation and propaganda from adversaries. Historically, during the Cold War, these broadcasters were vital in informing people in Soviet-occupied territories, underscoring their lasting relevance.
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