Voice of America is concerned about restrictions on its content demanded by the government of Burkina Faso. The April 25, 2024 order seeks to suspend VOA French and Bambara language broadcasts for two weeks, reduce access to VOA’s website and digital platforms, and censor VOA coverage related to allegations of human rights abuses by the Burkinabè army against civilians.
“VOA stands by its reporting about Burkina Faso and intends to continue to fully and fairly cover events in that country,” said Acting VOA Director John Lippman. He added, “The Voice of America strictly adheres to the principles of accurate, balanced and comprehensive journalism, therefore, we ask the government of Burkina Faso to reconsider this troubling decision.”
Lippman remarked, “As the world prepares to observe World Press Freedom Day one week from today, this latest action to restrict the free flow of news and information is yet another example of the truth behind VOA’s motto: A Free Press Matters.”
Based on 2020 data, VOA's weekly reach in Burkina Faso is 14.3 percent.