Battle of Values

"An absorbing, rich history of one of America's greatest soft power successes: the 'surrogate' broadcasts of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Mark Pomar supplements meticulous research with vivid descriptions from his unique experiences as a senior manager during more than a decade in U.S. international broadcasting, including at RFE/RL. . . . Of value to experts and those just seeking an understanding of the power of international broadcasting, Battle of Values makes a timely, convincing case for the continuing importance of the free flow of fact-based information in support of U.S. values and national interests around the world."—Jeffrey Trimble, former Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty Acting President

"After a half-century career in U.S. international broadcasting, Mark Pomar understands deeply how America told its story, explained its values, and provided objective, credible news to millions of people trapped in repressive regimes around the world. . . . Now, in a dark period when the U.S. government is dismantling its own international broadcasting, even as America's enemies are expanding their international media presence, Pomar's book is a crucial guide to what worked—and can still work—when America finds its voice again."—Jill Dougherty, distinguished fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and former CNN Moscow bureau chief

"This compelling history shows how humanity triumphed over authoritarianism during the Cold War. A diverse group of refugees from communist societies worked to keep freedom and integrity alive for their fellow citizens who could not escape. Mark Pomar reminds us that the defense of freedom requires support for free-thinking people, not power-hungry leaders. Anyone who cares about returning foreign policy to the defense of humanity should read this book."—Jeremi Suri, author of The Impossible Presidency and Liberty's Surest Guardian