Efforts to Rightsize the U.S. Presence Abroad Lack Urgency and Momentum

Publication

Efforts to Rightsize the U.S. Presence Abroad Lack Urgency and Momentum

Abstract

The Subcommittee on National Security, Emerging Threats and International Relations of the House Committee on Government Reform investigated the expanding and diverse U.S. presence abroad, noting challenges such as diminished ambassadorial control, increased threats to personnel, and rising costs. Acknowledging the need for a more strategic approach, the President has incorporated "rightsizing" the U.S. overseas presence into the Executive Branch's management agenda. To enhance mission efficiency and security the report recommends a renewed commitment to the rightsizing process for the State Department.