Radio Free Asia (RFA), a US-funded media organization, has successfully restarted its broadcasts targeting audiences in China. The service, which delivers programming in Mandarin, Tibetan, and Uyghur, had been severely curtailed last year following a major withdrawal of federal funding.
The organization’s operations were previously financed through congressional appropriations managed by the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM). Last year, that funding was abruptly terminated by the then-acting head of the agency, a Trump appointee, who cited concerns over budgetary waste and alleged political bias. The decision triggered widespread layoffs and prompted criticism from lawmakers in both major US political parties, who argued it undermined American influence abroad, particularly as China expands its global media footprint.
According to RFA’s leadership, the resumption of broadcasts was made possible by securing private contracts for transmission services. While audio content in Mandarin is currently available only online, the outlet aims to restore regular over-the-air radio broadcasts soon. Programming for Tibetan, Uyghur, Korean, and Burmese audiences is already being transmitted via shortwave and medium-wave frequencies.
The move coincides with recent congressional action. A bipartisan spending bill enacted earlier this month allocated funding for USAGM, though at a reduced level compared to previous years. The final amount was significantly more than what had been requested by the previous administration, which had sought to effectively defund the agency.
Reaction to RFA’s activities remains sharply divided. Chinese officials have consistently criticized the broadcaster, accusing it of historical bias and disseminating misinformation about China. Conversely, human rights advocates have long valued RFA’s reporting, highlighting its role in covering issues within authoritarian nations and giving voice to marginalized communities.
The broadcaster’s management has indicated that a full and stable rebuilding of its network will require consistent, long-term funding support from the US Congress.
