Benjamin Gilman: “I would like to voice my ardent support for H. Con. Res. 242, which congratulates Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty for…”

“I would like to voice my ardent support for H. Con. Res. 242, which congratulates Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty for its half century of work in promoting democratic values, and recognizes the organization's contribution to the growth of democracy throughout the world, as we strive toward creating a world of free democratic states living in peace with one another. One of the most effective, efficient ways to promote the growth of democratic institutions on every continent is for Americans to communicate directly with people in other countries. For 50 years, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty has continued to broadcast daily news, analysis, and current affairs programming in a coherent, objective manner throughout the world. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty programs continue to provide 35 million listeners with balanced, reliable information, aimed at bolstering democratic development and market economies in countries where peaceful evolution to civil societies is of vital national interest to the United States. With the advent of the war on terrorism, it becomes vital that Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty continues to demonstrate to other societies how having the freedom to live and do business creates a dynamic economy and a vibrant society. Explaining the value of freedom by directly communicating with the general population of other countries and their power elites is the best example of public diplomacy.”