532 Voice of America (VOA) journalists have received layoff letters following US President Donald Trump’s order to cut funding and lay off government-sponsored media outlets.
Kerry Lake, the media’s director, announced that about 100 employees will continue to work.
Paula Hickey, president of the VOA employee representation union, called the action illegal and stated: “These dismissals are a clear disrespect of the government for federal employees and the rule of law.”
He added that the union will take legal action against this decision to defend the rights of employees.
Trump’s executive order of March 15, 2025, targeted budget and staff cuts at media outlets such as Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and Radio Martí, which broadcasts Spanish-language news in Cuba.
This decision has drawn widespread criticism from press freedom organizations, who see it as a threat to independent media and the US role in promoting democracy around the world.
