United States Agency for Global Media

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) Acting CEO Kelu Chao released the following statement in recognition of World Press Freedom Day and in celebration of the Agency’s third annual Press Freedom Film Festival.

“As we recognize World Press Freedom Day, let us first pause to remember Vira Hyrych, a journalist for RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service who was killed in Kyiv after a Russian missile struck her home on April 28, 2022. I join Vira’s family, the RFE/RL team, and the entire USAGM community in mourning her loss and we will honor Vira’s legacy and her work.

“Today is a day to pay tribute to all those who put themselves at risk each day to bring truth to audiences around the world. This year’s World Press Freedom Day comes at a crucial moment for media freedom and journalist safety. Restrictions on independent media are on the rise, and attacks on journalists and their families are skyrocketing. Despite these challenges, USAGM continues to experience an unprecedented demand for news and information from our audiences worldwide.

“At USAGM, we believe that freedom of speech is a right. As an organization on the frontlines of the war on information, we will continue to act as a lifeline by informing, engaging and connecting people worldwide in support of freedom and democracy.”

In celebration of World Press Freedom Day, the third annual USAGM Press Freedom Film Festival runs from April 29 – June 3, 2022. The free online festival showcases documentaries from USAGM’s five public service broadcasting networks.