Don't let Voice of America broadcasts go static

[Commentary] Voice of America (VOA) has become the jewel in America’s public diplomacy effort. The US government’s international broadcasting operation is estimated to reach 187 million people in 59 languages. But many Americans are unaware of it – and of proposed changes that are in prospect.

These days, radio, especially shortwave, is not only facing the competition of television in countries around the world but also the challenge from the Internet and social media. Western government-supported radio services such as the British BBC have been having a hard time of it with budget cuts and staff layoffs, while countries like Russia, Iran, and China have been spending millions of dollars to expand their state-sponsored media. Little Qatar has made great audience inroads with its Al Jazeera TV operation. The Broadcasting Board of Governors, the part-time board headed by distinguished journalist Walter Isaacson that oversees US government broadcasting, believes all this demands a major shake-up and streamlining. The BBG’s strategic plan calls for “innovation and integration,” and reaching an audience of 216 million by 2016. The BBG has hired Deloitte consultants to work out the details. The major changes being planned should get the careful attention of legislators, journalists, and practitioners of public diplomacy. Retuning America’s voice may be desirable. It should be handled with care.

[Hughes was director of Voice of America in the Reagan administration]