H.R. 8161: Expeditionary Diplomacy Act

This bill, known as the Expeditionary Diplomacy Act, aims to enhance the practice of expeditionary diplomacy by the U.S. Department of State, especially in high-security environments. Here are the key components of the bill:

1. Definition of Expeditionary Diplomacy

Within 90 days after the bill's enactment, the Secretary of State must submit a report defining "expeditionary diplomacy" and distinguishing it from other forms of diplomacy. The report will also outline how the Department will implement this definition to improve its operations in riskier environments. The Secretary is required to consult with external stakeholders to formulate this definition, including groups like the American Academy of Diplomacy and the American Foreign Service Association.

2. Feedback on Challenges

Within 18 months of the initial report, the U.S. Comptroller General must provide Congress with a report detailing challenges faced by the Department of State in practicing expeditionary diplomacy. This report will include:

• An assessment of the capacity of regional security officers related to expeditionary diplomacy.
• Descriptions of challenges from both internal and external sources that impede the practice of expeditionary diplomacy.
• An evaluation of whether existing initiatives and laws are addressing these challenges.
• Insights from past and current efforts in expeditionary diplomacy.
• Recommendations regarding personnel policies that could enhance the ability of Foreign Service members to engage in expeditionary diplomacy.

3. Congressional Intent

The bill expresses a sense of Congress that the President should incorporate effective risk management practices to motivate diplomats to engage in expeditionary diplomacy, particularly in high-threat areas.

4. Chief of Mission Authority

The bill modifies the Chief of Mission authority by mandating that Chief of Mission exercises appropriate risk management practices to encourage relevant government employees to engage in expeditionary diplomacy.

5. Formation of a Tiger Team

Within one year of the bill’s enactment, the Secretary of State will establish a "Tiger Team," a task force focused on improving the Department's capacity and willingness to practice expeditionary diplomacy. The team will include members with expertise from various related departments and will be led by a senior officer. Key responsibilities include:

• Making recommendations to enhance expeditionary diplomacy.
• Collaborating with external stakeholders such as the American Academy of Diplomacy and the Overseas Security Advisory Council.
• Providing an initial report within 18 months detailing assessment plans, timelines, and necessary resources for implementing its recommendations.

6. Monitoring Implementation

The Tiger Team will oversee the implementation of its recommendations for 90 days after submitting its final report to Congress, after which the team will be terminated.

7. Definition of Congressional Committees

The term “appropriate congressional committees” refers to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

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