Defunding NPR: Threats to public service media grow in the USA
06 May 2025
On 1 May, an executive order signed by President Trump intends to eliminate federal funding for EBU Associate Member National Public Radio (NPR). This poses a significant threat to the integrity and accessibility of public service media in the United States.
EBU Director General Noel Curran said: “After defunding Radio Free Europe/ Radio Liberty, we now see threats to a cornerstone of American public service media, NPR. It is key to democracy and public debate, providing in-depth journalism and cultural programming that serves communities across the nation. Whether in Europe or in the US, it is imperative to recognize the vital role that public service media plays in fostering informed citizenship and cultural enrichment.”
The executive order further defunds the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and will hinder credible local news reaching everyone, especially rural communities, and the development of children's programming.
Relevant links and documents
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Andrea Campbell
Communications Manager, Legal & Policy, EU and Institutional Affairs