Judge Rules to Protect Collective Bargaining Rights for VOA Workers

Federal Court Upholds Collective Bargaining Rights for VOA Employees

The collective bargaining rights of Voice of America (VOA) employees have been upheld by a federal judge, marking a significant win for the workers and their unions, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).

VOA, an international broadcaster financed by the federal government, aims to deliver trusted and objective news to audiences in regions where free speech is restricted or civil society faces threats. The Trump administration had previously attempted to dismantle VOA, prompting a legal battle spearheaded by AFSCME and AFGE. Although the administration later revoked VOA workers' collective bargaining rights, union efforts have now resulted in a favorable court decision.

AFSCME President Lee Saunders described the recent court ruling as “a major victory” for the workers and accused the administration of trying to silence their voices. Saunders also emphasized the critical role that VOA and the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM), its parent agency, play in opposing oppressive regimes worldwide. For more details, refer to the press release.

The court embraced several arguments from AFSCME and AFGE, including claims that the administration's actions violated the First Amendment. John Dryden, president of the Voice of America Employees Union, AFSCME Local 1418, described the ruling as “a slam dunk” and expressed hope that this victory would encourage members to remain in their positions rather than accept buyouts. Although an appeal is anticipated, Dryden remains optimistic about the union's chances.

On August 28, President Donald Trump issued an executive order canceling collective bargaining rights for USAGM employees. The following day, the agency ended its collective bargaining agreement with Local 1418. However, Judge Paul Friedman of the D.C. federal court ruled that these actions constituted unconstitutional retaliation against AFSCME and AFGE, who had been actively defending the agency's existence.

The decision to grant a preliminary injunction was made in response to a lawsuit filed by AFSCME, AFGE, AFSCME Local 1418, and AFGE Local 1812. AFSCME members have seen repeated success in federal courts, challenging similar administrative actions. As Saunders stated, “We’ll continue to fight for the collective bargaining rights of our members against an administration determined to strip them away.”