Information Void in Tibet: The Impact of Defunding VOA & RFA

The Trump administration's move to pull funding from Radio Free Asia (RFA) and Voice of America (VOA) is creating an information void in Chinese-ruled Tibet, according to the head of the Tibetan government in exile. The stations have been instrumental in conveying American values and reporting on abuses against minorities, including Tibetans and Uyghur Muslims.

Penpa Tsering, addressing the National Press Club in Washington, highlighted the significant impact of these closures, underscoring the urgency for restoring the funding. 'Every penny counts,' Tsering noted, expressing concern over the impact on the Tibetan movement and community cohesion.

Amid a broader context of geopolitical tensions, Tsering warned global leaders against prioritizing short-term economic gains with China over their long-term national interests. His remarks come ahead of crucial trade talks between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.