President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at consolidating authority over US foreign relations under the executive branch. The order emphasizes the role of the president in setting foreign policy and directs the secretary of state to maintain a dedicated workforce of individuals committed to the administration's objectives.
The order, which underscores the president's efforts to assert control over federal workers implementing his policies, states that failure to adhere to the president's directives could result in professional consequences, including termination. It specifically tasks the secretary of state with taking appropriate action against foreign service officers, civil service employees, or other staff members who do not align with the administration's foreign policy goals.
In addition to emphasizing loyalty to the president's foreign policy agenda, the executive order calls for reforms within the foreign service. These reforms include enhancing recruitment practices, implementing more stringent performance evaluations, and establishing retention standards to ensure a workforce that is dedicated to executing the president's foreign policy vision.
The American Foreign Service Association has responded to the executive order by stating that it is currently evaluating its implications. The association emphasized that its members are committed to carrying out the foreign policy initiatives of the president, irrespective of political affiliations. They expressed the hope that any administration would recognize the expertise and knowledge of the Foreign Service in providing valuable advice on foreign policy matters. The AFSA reiterated its commitment to upholding the integrity and non-political nature of the Foreign Service.
