The Trump administration is poised to sign a draft executive order that would drastically reorganize the State Department, with sweeping cuts including a near-complete elimination of operations in Africa and the shutdown of facilities addressing democracy, human rights, and refugee concerns worldwide. The proposed changes are intended to impose a "disciplined reorganization," aiming to streamline operations while addressing perceived inefficiencies, fraud, and waste within the department.

Recent reports have revealed that, should the executive order be enacted, it would lead to substantial layoffs of both foreign service officers and civil service employees. Those affected would include career diplomats and staff working at the agency's Washington headquarters, with the department expected to begin issuing notices of termination alongside placing numerous employees on paid leave.

Moreover, the draft order suggests the termination of the foreign service exam for aspiring diplomats, introducing new hiring criteria to align with the President's foreign policy agenda. The plan also emphasizes the integration of artificial intelligence in the drafting of documents and the undertaking of policy development and operational strategies.

This seismic shift could redefine U.S. diplomatic efforts, raising concerns about its capability to engage with critical global challenges. The full impact of these proposed changes remains to be seen as President Trump prepares to move forward with the order.