A draft White House executive order is poised to initiate a significant reorganization of the State Department with sweeping implications, particularly aimed at diminishing the agency’s presence in Africa. This proposed restructuring, which President Trump may enact imminently, envisions cutting nearly all of its Africa operations and shuttering embassies and consulates across the continent.
Furthermore, the order recommends eliminating various positions at State Department headquarters that focus on pressing global matters like climate change, human rights, and refugee support. The directive, described as pursuing a “disciplined reorganization,” is geared towards enhancing efficiency by streamlining missions while ostensibly eradicating “waste, fraud, and abuse.”
If enforced, the changes outlined in the 16-page draft order would necessitate that the State Department implement a series of workforce reductions, including layoffs of both foreign service officers and civil service employees. Reports indicate that substantial numbers of employees would be placed on paid leave ahead of termination notations, as part of a mass effort to reconsolidate the department.
Additionally, the draft outlines the cessation of the foreign service exam, an essential component for recruiting new diplomats, coupled with altered hiring criteria focused on “alignment with the president’s foreign policy vision.” The proposal underscores an intended greater adoption of artificial intelligence within the department's operations, aimed at aiding in documentation, policy development, and operational planning.
The prospect of these changes has raised concerns among current and former officials about the potential long-term effects on America’s diplomatic capabilities and its role in addressing critical global issues.
