US State Department Implements Major Layoffs under Trump Administration's Reorganization Plan
Over 1,300 employees lose their jobs as part of a dramatic restructuring effort criticized for its potential impact on global diplomacy and national security.
The US State Department initiated significant layoffs on Friday, affecting over 1,300 employees in line with the Trump administration's plan to reorganize the department.
This move has sparked considerable debate among current and former diplomats, who fear it may weaken America's influence abroad at a time of heightened global tensions.
The department notified 1,107 civil servants and 246 foreign service officers about the abolishment of their positions.
Employees were given until 5 p.m. to gather their belongings and exit the premises.
Outside the State Department, protests erupted in support of departing colleagues, highlighting concerns over the impact on national security and diplomacy.
Critics argue that the layoffs, driven by a desire to streamline operations and reduce costs, could ultimately compromise America's ability to engage in international affairs effectively.
Supporters, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Donald Trump, have defended the move as necessary for making the department leaner and more efficient.
The layoffs are part of broader changes within the federal government under the current administration's agenda to shrink the size of government.
The reorganization plan also includes the absorption of the US Agency for International Development into the State Department following significant cuts to foreign aid funding.
This move has been made possible by a recent Supreme Court ruling that cleared the way for such reductions despite ongoing legal challenges.
Employees affected by the layoffs will be placed on administrative leave, with some facing a separation period of up to 120 days before their employment is formally terminated.
The American Foreign Service Association, representing US diplomats, has strongly opposed these job cuts, emphasizing their concerns about the loss of diplomatic expertise during a critical moment in global affairs.
The layoffs have been met with widespread criticism from both current and former diplomats, who worry about the long-term implications for America's international standing.
This move has sparked considerable debate among current and former diplomats, who fear it may weaken America's influence abroad at a time of heightened global tensions.
The department notified 1,107 civil servants and 246 foreign service officers about the abolishment of their positions.
Employees were given until 5 p.m. to gather their belongings and exit the premises.
Outside the State Department, protests erupted in support of departing colleagues, highlighting concerns over the impact on national security and diplomacy.
Critics argue that the layoffs, driven by a desire to streamline operations and reduce costs, could ultimately compromise America's ability to engage in international affairs effectively.
Supporters, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Donald Trump, have defended the move as necessary for making the department leaner and more efficient.
The layoffs are part of broader changes within the federal government under the current administration's agenda to shrink the size of government.
The reorganization plan also includes the absorption of the US Agency for International Development into the State Department following significant cuts to foreign aid funding.
This move has been made possible by a recent Supreme Court ruling that cleared the way for such reductions despite ongoing legal challenges.
Employees affected by the layoffs will be placed on administrative leave, with some facing a separation period of up to 120 days before their employment is formally terminated.
The American Foreign Service Association, representing US diplomats, has strongly opposed these job cuts, emphasizing their concerns about the loss of diplomatic expertise during a critical moment in global affairs.
The layoffs have been met with widespread criticism from both current and former diplomats, who worry about the long-term implications for America's international standing.
