Overview

• Nearly 600 Voice of America contractors were terminated on May 15, representing more than a third of the broadcaster's staff.
• The Wilbur J. Cohen Federal Building, VOA's headquarters in Washington, has been listed for 'accelerated disposal' as part of broader government downsizing efforts.
• Some terminated contractors, including journalists on J-1 visas, face deportation within 30 days, raising concerns about their safety in repressive home countries.
• VOA's director, Michael Abramowitz, has called the firings 'inexplicable' and is pursuing legal action to stop the administration's dismantling of the agency.
• Limited VOA programming has resumed under court injunctions, but ongoing appeals leave its funding and operations in uncertainty.