U.S. interests in foreign countries and in international forums need more than ever the agency, advocacy and stewardship of seasoned diplomatic personnel with global experience and strong cross-cultural skills. However, as the demands for diplomacy increase, America s diplomatic apparatus is in serious trouble. Demographic and social changes, long-term prosperity in the American economy, and a greater variety of careers in international affairs have presented new challenges to the foreign affairs agencies in recruiting and retaining the best people in the Foreign Service. Insufficient workforce planning within our foreign affairs agencies has resulted in sizeable staffing gaps, especially among mid-level officers. Fatigue and frustration have increased as more is asked of fewer people.
Insufficient manpower inhibits professional education and training.
Funding for international affairs makes up only one percent of the federal budget, and that is not enough. In a period of history when the United States must be fully engaged internationally, we as a nation are not providing the necessary support to recruit, train, and ultimately retain skilled, effective diplomats. We are not providing sufficient resources to protect our overseas posts and fund America s leadership role in the world. Increases in mandatory parts of the budget such as social security are partly responsible for these declining numbers. In fact, the 2000 House budget resolution projected a continuing decrease in the International Affairs account while discretionary spending and funding for such areas as defense and transportation increased.