Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued this statement following House passage of S. 2183, international broadcasting legislation originally authored by Chairman Royce (and included as Section 103 of the Ukraine Support Act (H.R. 4278) that the House passed last week).
“Russia’s propaganda machine is in overdrive - stirring confusion, fear, and unrest in Ukraine. This legislation counters that by providing added accurate news and information by U.S.-backed Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and the Voice of America. For decades, this type of broadcasting has been pivotal in helping young and struggling democracies push back against media lies and distortions and get off their feet. It’s needed now in Ukraine and the surrounding region more than ever."
The legislation authorizes increased funding for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and the Voice of America to enable them to expand their broadcasting in Russian, Ukrainian, and Tatar. This legislation requires the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG) to counter the propaganda that is supported by Russia and increase the number of reporters in eastern Ukraine. In addition, this legislation recognizes the threat to free media that neighboring states are under and bolsters the Balkan and Moldovan language services. Last week, the House passed the Ukraine Support Act (H.R. 4278), legislation introduced by Royce and Ranking Member Eliot Engel.
