U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to make significant changes to the State Department’s global operations, including a major scale-back in Africa. A draft executive order proposes the closure of most U.S. embassies and consulates across African nations.
According to CNBC, the order—expected to be signed this week—also includes proposals to eliminate offices and positions related to climate, women’s rights, democracy, human rights, immigration, and crime. The restructuring is set to be completed by October 1, 2025.
The draft aims to streamline the State Department, reduce waste and fraud, and align U.S. foreign affairs with the “America First” policy.
Key Elements of the Draft Order:
Regional Restructuring:
Four regional "cores" would replace existing regional bureaus:
Eurasia Core: Europe, Russia, Central Asia
Middle East Core: Arab states, Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan
Latin America Core: Central/South America, Caribbean
Indo-Pacific Core: East/Southeast Asia, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives
Reduced Presence in Canada:
U.S. diplomatic operations in Canada will be scaled down, managed by a small "North American Affairs Office" under the Secretary of State.
Elimination of Key Offices:
Offices handling climate, women’s rights, democracy, human rights, immigration, and crime will be dissolved.
Changes in Recruitment:
The long-standing Foreign Service Officer Test will be replaced with a selection process based on alignment with the President’s foreign policy.
Voluntary Exit Program:
Foreign diplomats and staff unwilling to work under the new structure can voluntarily resign by September 30 through a one-time buyout and transition program.