Facts About The United States

U.S. Department of State

Lead foreign affairs agency of the United States government


U.S. Department of State




The United States Department of State is the federal government’s lead foreign affairs agency and the primary institution responsible for the nation’s diplomacy. Established on July 27, 1789, it is the oldest executive department in the United States and plays a central role in representing the country’s interests abroad, negotiating treaties, managing embassies and consulates, and advising the President on international matters.

The Department of State is headed by the Secretary of State, the nation’s top diplomat and one of the most influential positions in the U.S. government.

Role and responsibilities

The State Department is responsible for:

  • Conducting diplomacy with foreign nations
  • Representing the United States at the United Nations and other international organizations
  • Negotiating treaties and international agreements
  • Protecting U.S. citizens abroad
  • Issuing passports and managing visa policy
  • Coordinating foreign assistance and development programs
  • Advising the President on global issues, crises, and policy decisions

The department works to promote American values, maintain global stability, and strengthen alliances worldwide.

Organization and structure

The Department of State is composed of:

Office of the Secretary

The Secretary of State oversees all diplomatic efforts and serves as the President’s principal foreign policy advisor.

Bureaus and offices

The agency includes numerous specialized bureaus, such as:

  • Bureau of African Affairs
  • Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs
  • Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs
  • Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs
  • Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs
  • Bureau of Consular Affairs
  • Bureau of Intelligence and Research
  • Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation

These bureaus manage diplomacy, security, humanitarian efforts, and regional strategies.

Foreign Service

The U.S. Foreign Service represents the United States abroad. Diplomats serve in:

  • Embassies
  • Consulates
  • Permanent missions
  • Special diplomatic posts

Foreign Service Officers are essential to promoting U.S. interests and assisting American citizens everywhere in the world.

Diplomatic missions

The State Department operates one of the largest diplomatic networks in the world, with:

  • More than 270 embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions
  • Permanent representation at organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, and the OECD

Secretary of State

The Secretary of State is the head of the department, fourth in the presidential line of succession, and a key figure in shaping U.S. foreign policy. The role includes:

  • Overseeing diplomatic operations
  • Meeting world leaders
  • Serving as the nation’s chief negotiator
  • Advising on war, peace, trade, climate, and global issues

Budget and workforce

The State Department employs over 69,000 people worldwide, including:

  • Foreign Service Officers
  • Civil Service employees
  • Locally employed staff at embassies
  • Contract specialists

Its budget supports diplomatic missions, security operations, and global development efforts.

See also

Notes

This article provides an overview of the Department of State, its mission, structure, and global role.

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