Written evidence from Kiyo Akasaka, New
York
I grew up listening to the BBC World Service, which
used to broadcast on short wave in the Japanese language. I still
remember how sad I felt when the broadcasts came to an end, because
of budget cuts, despite the fact that there were thousands of
listeners. The BBC, and other international broadcasters including
VOA, RFI, and All India Radio were some of the first media organizations
to look beyond national borders and lay the trail for our interconnected
world.
I have listened to the BBC throughout my life, and
in my postings in different countries on four continents. The
BBC informs my work, and provides me with information and stories
from around the world. There are millions of BBC listeners around
the world, many in war-torn places and in vulnerable situations
- just as Japan was, when I grew up in the aftermath of World
War II. They depend on the World Service as a lifeline to the
greater world. And today, more than ever, one of the most beautiful
things about radio is that it is inexpensive, available, and works
- even when electricity lines are down, or when the Internet is
blocked.
Every media organisation is adapting its working
practices in the digital age; priorities shift and technology
moves on. That is an inevitable fact of life. But curtailing the
services of any well-loved and respected international media institution
is worrying, especially at a time when peoples everywhere need
more, not less, accurate, balanced and timely reporting on the
events that affect their lives. What a great pity to see the gift
of the BBC diminished or lost.
I submit this statement in my personal capacity.
10 February 2011
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