Al Jazeera America to close down in April 2016

Al Jazeera America, since its launch in August 20th 2013 announced the close of its cable TV and digital operations by April 30th this year. A statement from the company’s CEO, Al Anstey explained, “The decision by the Al Jazeera America’s board was driven by the fact that our business model is simply not sustainable in light of the economic challenges in the U.S. media marketplace.”

“Al Jazeera America has done a brilliant job with an unrivaled commitment to great journalism and the most talented team organization could have wished for, through the work of AJAM’s teams we have shown there is a different way of reporting news and providing information.”

“I know the closure of AJAM will be a massive disappointment for everyone here who has worked tirelessly for our long-term future,” Anstey wrote in an email addressed to all the company’s employees. The decision was no reflection on the work of that staff, he said. “Our commitment to great journalism is unrivaled. We have increasingly set ourselves apart from all the rest. And you are the most talented team any organization could wish for.”

The announcement of AJAM’s closure coincides with a decision by its global parent company to commit to a significant expansion of its existing international digital services to broaden its multi-platform presence in the United States. As audiences increasingly turn to multiple platforms, including mobile devices, for news and information, this expansion will allow US and non-US consumers alike to access the Network’s journalism and content wherever and whenever they want.

“The Network’s commitment to its digital transformation of its global operations is consistent with its mission to inform and engage audiences no matter who they are or where they are. By expanding its digital content and distribution services to now include the US, the Network will be better positioned to innovate and compete in an overwhelmingly digital world to serve today’s 24-hour digitally focused audience,” the Al Jazeera Media Network said in a statement.

“Between now and April, we will continue to show America why AJAM has won respect and the fierce loyalty of so many of our viewers,” Anstey wrote. “Through your remarkable work at AJAM, we have shown that there is a different way of reporting news and providing information. The foundation of this is integrity, great journalism, impartiality and a commitment to the highest quality story telling. This will be our lasting impact, and as we produce and showcase the best of our work in the weeks to come, this will be clear for everyone to see.” Al Anstey concluded.