Undaunted, US global media chief plows ahead with changes

Washington

Despite a barrage of criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, the new chief of U.S. global media is plowing ahead with changes to the Voice of America and other international broadcasters that are heightening concerns about their future as independent news organizations.

Although Agency for Global Media chief executive Michael Pack has assured Congress that VOA and its sister networks will remain independent and has pledged he would consult lawmakers on significant developments, last week he initiated personnel changes and began a review of visas for foreign employees, The Associated Press reported.