WASHINGTON: A federal judge has directed the US Agency for Global Media to reinstate more than 1,000 employees and fully restore operations of Voice of America by March 23.
US District Judge Royce C. Lamberth ruled on Tuesday that the agency’s previous leadership had violated federal law by shutting down large parts of VOA and its affiliated networks, calling the actions unlawful. The ruling overturns mass layoffs and program suspensions.
The controversy dates back to 2025, when Kari Lake, a former TV anchor and supporter of Donald Trump, was brought into USAGM. She served as senior adviser, then deputy chief executive, and acted as CEO from July to November 2025, despite not being confirmed by the Senate.
During her tenure, VOA experienced major staff cuts and reductions in global broadcasts, with significant parts of its operations reportedly shut down under her authority.
Judge Lamberth stated that no valid justification was provided for dismantling the broadcaster, ruling the measures illegal.
Michael Abramowitz, VOA’s director who had faced removal under Lake, welcomed the decision, praising the resilience of the staff and expressing eagerness to resume operations.
The layoffs affected journalists worldwide, including approximately 100 Pakistani reporters in VOA’s Urdu and Pashto services, which had been drastically reduced or closed.
Founded during World War II, VOA broadcasts in dozens of languages and remains a key instrument of US public diplomacy, with a statutory duty to provide accurate and balanced news globally.
While the administration may appeal, the court order currently requires USAGM to restore operations and recall staff by March 23.