The Trump administration plans to drastically reform the United States Department of State, according to a draft order seen by The New York Times.
If signed, the decree would have significant implications, including halting nearly all activities in Africa and closing embassies across the continent. Regional offices worldwide would be shuttered and merged.
Offices dealing with issues like democracy, refugees, and human rights would also be dismantled. The position of special envoy for climate is slated for removal according to the draft.
Trump may sign the order next week, potentially leading to the dismissal of large numbers of officials. The aim is to conduct a “disciplined reorganisation” and to combat “waste, fraud, and abuse.”
The draft further suggests a major expansion of the Department’s use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for policy development, although the order might be amended before Trump signs it.
