Uncertain doubts persist over the proposed consolidation plan between USAID and the State Department, sparking unease among some parties.
The State Department is embarking on a significant reorganization, with plans to take over the functions of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This transition will see the addition of a substantial workforce, including 308 U.S. direct-hire staff, 370 locally employed staff, and 40 personal services contractors.
The decision to absorb USAID's functions has not been without scrutiny. A report issued by the State Department Office of Inspector General (OIG) highlighted potential issues with the planning process for this transition, particularly during the Trump administration. The OIG recommended that bureaus should be provided with appropriate resources to handle their new responsibilities, a recommendation that the department generally agreed with.
However, the OIG also noted that the strategic workforce planning should precede any staff realignments or downsizing to avoid skills gaps or other adverse effects. This recommendation was not followed in the case of the USAID transition, according to the report.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has also weighed in, recommending that strategic workforce planning should be a priority before any staff realignments or downsizing.
It's important to note that the USAID realignment is happening concurrently with a review of U.S. foreign aid. This review, along with the department reorganization, are interconnected, with the goal being to streamline foreign assistance efforts.
Investigators have recommended that the secretary of State delegate responsibility for the transfer to the deputy secretary for Management and Resources. The aim is to shift responsibility from the Assistance Transition Working Group, composed of nine department officials, to State bureaus.
However, as of May 1, the State Department had not completed an implementation plan for all efforts needed to transfer USAID to the department. The report warned about the risks of actions taken prior to implementation plan completion needing to be revised or adjusted.
Despite these challenges, the department is pressing ahead with the reorganization. The Assistance Transition Working Group is planned to close on or around July 1. Nearly all USAID employees will be laid off under reduction in force procedures on July 1 or Sept. 2 as part of an effort to shutter the agency.
The State Department, in its ongoing reorganization, is set to take on a significant new role in foreign aid delivery. The successful implementation of this transition will require careful planning and strategic decision-making to ensure a smooth and effective transition.
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