In 2007 respected broadcast journalist Carlos Flores and his family set up Radio La Voz in Bagua Grande in the Utcubambo region of Peru.  The station’s aim was to support local communities - it broadcast regular news bulletins about local events and environmental issues, alongside cultural and educational programmes. 

But in June 2009 the Peruvian government closed down La Voz when it broadcast live reports of clashes between security forces and local Amazonian communities who were protesting about the opening up of large tracts of land to foreign investment.  More than 34 people were killed and the government blamed La Voz for the casualties, claiming that the station had used its airwaves to ferment violence and incite attacks on police officers. The Flores family were left high and dry with no income.

Unable to find regular work, Carlos formulated a business plan to produce a weekly newspaper using his and his son’s experience in print media. The Trust, already aware of Carlos’s situation, provided funds to support two editions of the weekly newspaper and basic subsistence for the family as they set up the new venture.

In March 2010 the Trust was delighted to hear that Carlos had won the Index on Censorship Guardian Journalism Award in recognition of La Voz’s services to investigative journalism and Carlos’s dogged determination. And in August the dogged determination paid off.  Following meetings with national press freedom groups, the government backtracked on their decision and restored Radio La Voz’s licence. 

A further grant from the Trust has helped Carlos and his family repair the station’s equipment and Radio La Voz is now broadcasting once again.