A draft executive order anticipated to be signed by President Trump proposes sweeping changes within the U.S. State Department, including a substantial downsizing of its operations in Africa and the closure of numerous embassies and consulates throughout the continent. This proposed restructuring aims to cut offices at headquarters that address pertinent matters like climate change, refugee issues, and human rights advocacy.
The 16-page draft report, which has been reviewed by various sources, underscores the administration’s intention to impose “a disciplined reorganization” and to streamline “mission delivery” while eliminating “waste, fraud and abuse.” The anticipated changes may be initiated by October 1, potentially impacting the structure and functions of the department significantly.
The initiative includes not only budgetary cuts but also staff reductions, with plans to lay off both career diplomats and civil service employees based in Washington. Current and former U.S. officials familiar with the proposals have indicated that many employees could be placed on paid leave or receive termination notices in light of these anticipated changes.
Notably, the draft also seeks to abolish the foreign service exam for aspiring diplomats, introducing new hiring criteria that emphasize “alignment with the president’s foreign policy vision.” Furthermore, there is a push for increased integration of artificial intelligence within the department, aimed at enhancing policy development, operational planning, and document drafting.
As reactions from diplomats and foreign policy experts arise, concerns grow over the implications these amendments could have on the United States' global standing and capacity to engage with international issues effectively.
