Trans World Radio

Trans World Radio (TWR)

Company type	Non-profit organization
Industry	Christian media, Broadcasting
Founded	1952 (1952)
Founder	Paul E. Freed
Headquarters	Cary , United States
Area served	Worldwide (over 190 nations)
Products	Radio broadcasting, Digital media programs
Website	www.twr.org

TWR (Trans World Radio) stands as a global evangelical Christian media organization and ranks as the largest entity of its kind worldwide. Its broadcasting methods encompass powerful medium-wave (AM) and shortwave transmitters, alongside local FM outlets, cable networks, satellite services, internet platforms, mobile technology, and various digital media channels.

The organization airs programs produced by Christian ministries such as Thru the Bible and Turning Point, in addition to its proprietary series including Mission 66, Women of Hope, Dr. Luke, The Way of Righteousness, Men of Courage, and Precious and Beloved. Its programming reaches audiences in over 190 nations, delivered in more than 200 languages and dialects.

TWR maintains affiliations with several industry bodies, including the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), the Evangelical Press Association (EPA), the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), and the International Orality Network (ION).

History

Established in 1952 by , TWR initiated its transmissions to Spain from Morocco on February 22, 1954, under the banner The Voice of Tangier. The initial broadcasts employed a 2,500-watt shortwave transmitter from the World War II era, targeting listeners on the Iberian Peninsula with Spanish and English content. The network saw swift growth; by January 1956, it had introduced a 10,000-watt transmitter that expanded its reach across much of Europe. By 1959, programming was available in 24 different languages.

Following Morocco’s assumption of control over Tangier in 1959, all non-governmental radio stations were mandated to cease operations by the end of that year, resulting in TWR’s departure from the region. Prior to this transition, Freed secured an agreement to utilize a shortwave transmitter at Radio Monte Carlo located in Monaco. Since May 1960, TWR has operated from Mount Agel near Monte Carlo and incorporated a medium-wave transmitter into its facilities in 1964.

Notable transmission sites have included locations such as Guam (KTWG), Bonaire (PJB), Sri Lanka, Cyprus, and Eswatini. The Guam transmitter was assigned the call sign KTWR by the Federal Communications Commission. Facing operational difficulties and outdated infrastructure, TWR intends to discontinue KTWR’s service by October 2025; however, broadcasts targeting Asian audiences will persist through affiliated partner stations.

Beginning in 1995, TWR expanded its broadcast capabilities by utilizing state-owned transmitters near Johannesburg in South Africa as well as facilities within two former Soviet republics situated in Central Asia.

Network

TWR holds membership within the Association of Christian Broadcasters.

See also

• List of international religious radio broadcasters
• List of religious radio stations

Further reading

• Freed, Paul E. (1979). Towers to Eternity, Nashville, Sceptre Books.