State Department Restructuring: 1,350 Employees Affected as Major Reorganization Enters Final Phase

On Friday, the State Department laid off over 1,350 employees in its largest reorganization in decades. The Bureau of Global Talent Management informed 1,107 civil service and 246 Foreign Service workers in the U.S. about their layoffs. As they left the building, some carried boxes of belongings while others outside applauded in solidarity.

Michael Duffin, a senior policy advisor, shared that the Office of Countering Violent Extremism, where he worked, was dissolved. It tackled issues like antisemitism and white supremacy. Duffin expressed disappointment, saying, “No one disagrees with reform, but simply laying people off is not the right approach.” Holding up a sign that read “Diplomacy matters. Feds matter,” he walked out for the last time.

Interestingly, some employees were later told their layoff notices were sent by mistake. Lew Olowski, a senior official, noted that some should disregard their notifications as their positions were not actually being cut.

The timeline for separation varies; Foreign Service employees will part ways 120 days after RIF notices, while civil service staff have about 60 days. The State Department specified that these layoffs are meant to focus on non-essential roles and areas where efficiency can be improved through consolidation.

Initially, the department planned nearly 1,900 layoffs, with earlier reports suggesting up to 700 Foreign Service positions could be affected. Now, the total projected workforce reduction stands at almost 3,000 employees—around 15% of the total staff. The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) revealed that this comes after significantly draining resources, claiming at least a 20% reduction in the Foreign Service workforce just this year.

Tom Yazdgerdi, AFSA President, highlighted that many Foreign Service personnel were already overworked. Some even took on roles that exceeded their experience. “Burnout was prevalent before the cuts,” he said. Many facing layoffs held promising positions, such as those recently promoted.

Critics, including Yazdgerdi, argue the layoffs lack merit-based justification, deeming them arbitrary. He likened the process to “Russian roulette,” where employees were affected based solely on their assignments rather than their performance or contributions.

Despite the downsizing, Rigas, the deputy secretary of state, emphasized that the goal is targeted reform to create a more efficient organization. He noted it affects both civil and Foreign Service personnel. While some employees were eligible for voluntary separation payments, budget limits complicated the situation, putting a strain on hiring and workforce management.

Recent studies show that such mass layoffs can lead to decreased morale and productivity. A study by the American Psychological Association found that layoffs often result in feelings of insecurity among remaining employees, which can affect overall performance. Historically, significant workforce cuts can lead to long-term repercussions for organizational health.

In Washington, the sentiment remains mixed. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that these changes aim to make the department more efficient, asserting that closing certain offices naturally eliminates the need for associated positions. “This is about reform, not just about letting people go,” he stated.

These changes come at a time when the diplomatic workforce is already stretched thin. While the department claims these reforms are vital for efficient diplomacy, questions linger over their approach and the potential impact on the nation’s foreign relations.

For additional information, you can refer to the U.S. State Department for updates and resources regarding these changes.

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