Why lack of diversity in our foreign policy workforce is a problem for diplomacy

Over the past year, endless discussions on U.S. foreign policy have been had in the halls of power that will impact millions across the globe—from funding for our allies facing the threat of war to investments in global public health. But as a senior Black foreign policy legislator, I am all too aware that these conversations often lack the critical voices of people of color. Ironically, the policies that emerge from these meetings often impact people of color the most. 

Lack of diversity in the U.S. foreign policy workforce is not a new problem. In 2020, at the request of Congress, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) reviewed diversity and inclusion in the foreign affairs workforce. That study found that both the State Department and USAID had abjectly failed to reflect America in hiring and promotions. The diversity rate looks even worse if you compare it to that of 30 years ago: the findings of the 2020 study echo the findings of a GAO study on the same topic from 1989. Both studies found disparities in rates of promotion; underrepresentation of minorities in leadership positions; and institutional barriers not being addressed. Numerous administrations—Democratic and Republican alike—have promised to make changes to increase diversity. But clearly, the steps taken so far fall short. 

With escalating global conflict in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa and a looming presidential election here in the U.S. in November, diversifying our foreign policy workforce has never been more important.  

A “Male, Pale, and Yale” State Department is a problem for several reasons. First: Having diverse perspectives at the table is critical both to equity and good policy. When we fail to cultivate diversity, it can lead to whole classes of issues—including systemic racism, poverty, inequality, and climate justice—being disregarded. In addition to being morally wrong, it’s bad policy. Having diversity at the table helps to avoid groupthink and narrow perspectives. You have the advantage of being able to draw from a unique set of backgrounds and connections to other nations to solve problems and come up with innovative solutions that account for all sides of a situation. 

Second: It is often said that Americans don’t vote on foreign policy. But that doesn’t mean foreign policy isn’t a factor. And when Americans of color—who are critical to the Democratic Party—don’t see themselves or their priorities reflected in our foreign policy, they are less likely to engage politically. President George W. Bush’s handling of the Iraq War won the House for Democrats in 2006. In 2008, President Obama’s anti-Iraq War stance was a major asset when facing off with Hillary Clinton and John McCain. Part of President Biden’s appeal in 2020 was his pledge to revive America’s reputation on the global stage following the damage done by President Trump’s aggressive isolationism. 

The Israel-Hamas conflict has galvanized voters to a degree not seen in years. Ensuring that the people handling this conflict in government are diverse and represent America, or democratizing our foreign policy, is critical to combatting cynicism and disillusionment among liberal voters. 

Finally: A diverse workforce leads to stronger diplomacy. When our partners abroad see the uniformity of our development workforce, they question our commitment to inclusion and equity—and perhaps most importantly, may be less inclined to work with us. Diplomacy relies on shared understanding, and that is easier to achieve with people at the table from a variety of backgrounds.  

We must dismantle the long-standing institutional barriers to diversity that exist in many of our foreign policy agencies. After 30 years of failure, we can’t wait for evolutionary change. We need to try something different. 

The answer isn’t recruiting—it’s accountability. Accountability for leadership to hire, promote, and retain a diverse staff, and to promote an environment where everyone is valued. 

It will be uncomfortable. It will force everyone at State and USAID to change the way they do business. But we want everyone involved to understand the fierce urgency of this issue. The United States government cannot effectively represent America abroad unless it hires, promotes, retains, and values a workforce that truly represents America. The time for study and debate is over. The time for change is here. 

Barbara Lee represents the 12th District of California and is ranking member of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Subcommittee.