CSIS Conversation with BBG CEO on Global Media and its Role in Foreign Policy

John Lansing Discusses Agency Investments, including Russian-focused Programming

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Oct 31, 2016, 06:13 ET

WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Center for Strategic and International Studies had a conversation with Broadcasting Board of Governors CEO and Director John Lansing in which he discussed the agency's latest efforts to provide audiences around the world with unfettered access to unbiased and accurate information.

"Through lies, intimidation, manipulation, barriers to internet access or more subtle and sophisticated uses of half-truths and innuendo, our adversaries are using information to create an alternate reality," Lansing said.

On October 31, 2016, BBG CEO John Lansing was a special guest at the Center for Strategic and International Studies for a discussion on the importance of U.S international media in foreign policy.

He added that the "weaponization of information" can be seen in efforts to disrupt the essence of democratic institutions. As part of its efforts to counter revisionist propaganda, the BBG has increased programming aimed at Russians and Russian speakers. The BBG chief says the agency will continue to target areas around the world where information is tightly controlled and where press freedom remains under attack.

"The United States is a safer place when civil society and democracy is growing and flourishing around the world. The tool of objective independent professional journalism helps keep the world safer overall."

The complete conversation can be seen here: https://www.bbg.gov/2016/10/31/global-media-foreign-policy-public-engagement/

For more information on the BBG's investment strategy, read the 2017 budget request here: https://www.bbg.gov/strategy-and-performance/budget-submissions/

For more information:
Nasserie Carew
(202) 203-4400
[email protected]

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SOURCE Broadcasting Board of Governors