Brussels considers EU financial support for Radio Free Europe

The European Union is considering taking on the financial responsibility for Radio Free Europe (RFE), although this is not an automatic decision, according to EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas.

Speaking at a press conference following a meeting of the EU Council in Brussels, Kallas discussed the potential funding gap left by the United States’ withdrawal of support for the broadcaster, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Kaja Kallas explained that the EU is considering whether it can provide funding to fill the gap left by the loss of US support. She noted that the decision is not automatic, as many organisations are facing similar challenges. However, according to Kallas, ministers have insisted on discussing the issue and finding a solution.

She called "Radio Free Europe" a "beacon of democracy" and expressed regret over the US decision to stop its funding.

Note that, the move follows calls in February from Elon Musk, head of the US government agency responsible for improving efficiency, to halt funding for RFE and the Voice of America. Musk's recommendation has sparked significant debate over the future of these media outlets.

The EU’s deliberations are part of broader discussions regarding the role of state-funded media in promoting democratic values and providing unbiased news, particularly in regions where independent journalism faces growing challenges.

By Aghakazim Guliyev