In response to the US government freezing its funding, Sweden's government has announced a $2 million donation to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) for 2025. This funding aims to maintain access to free media in countries like Belarus, China, Iran, and Russia, where official propaganda poses significant challenges. RFE/RL, which has a large operational budget and reaches nearly 50 million people in various languages, has been a critical resource for fact-based information. Sweden's EU Minister emphasized that independent media is vital for democracy and cannot be taken for granted, especially amid funding uncertainties.
"Free and independent media are essential for vibrant and prosperous democracies but not something we can take for granted," said Sweden's EU Minister Jessica Rosencrantz.
"After the United States withdrew its support for Radio Free Europe, people in many countries risk a lack of access to free media," stated the Swedish government.
Founded by the United States during the Cold War to counter Soviet propaganda, RFE/RL reaches almost 50 million people in various countries.
RFE/RL has remained operational despite US funding cuts, with support from the Czech government ensuring its broadcasts in 27 languages to underserved regions.
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