WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — The U.S. State Department has dismissed more than 200 experienced Foreign Service officers in its latest workforce cuts, drawing strong criticism from a major federal employee union. The move has sparked concerns about the treatment of career civil servants.
The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which represents over 6,500 civil service workers at the State Department, spoke out against the decision. The union said the layoffs targeted nonpartisan diplomats and career professionals who play a vital role in U.S. foreign policy. AFGE officials confirmed that the department also separated about 20 civil service employees in the same round of cuts. The union described the move as part of a broader pattern of reducing the federal workforce. AFGE Local 1534 said it will continue to fight for the reinstatement of affected workers. Union leaders called the layoffs “disastrous” and pledged to challenge them through legal and legislative channels.
Career diplomats serve as the backbone of U.S. diplomacy. They bring years of experience and deep knowledge of international relations. Many of the dismissed officers have spent decades representing American interests abroad. The union warned that these cuts could weaken the country’s diplomatic strength. It said the loss of institutional knowledge could harm national security and reduce the effectiveness of foreign policy efforts. AFGE leaders stressed that diplomacy relies on skilled professionals who understand global issues. They argued that replacing experienced officers with less experienced staff or contractors could create gaps in expertise.
The layoffs have raised questions about the department’s hiring strategy. According to the union, the State Department continues to hire new staff and contractors while dismissing experienced employees. Union officials said this approach undermines civil service protections. They argued that replacing career workers with new hires performing similar roles does not qualify as meaningful reform. AFGE pointed to concerns raised by other professional groups, which have also criticized the department’s staffing decisions. Critics say the practice could bypass rules designed to protect federal employees from unfair treatment.
The recent dismissals follow earlier cuts to the federal workforce. AFGE reported that about 1,350 civil service employees were separated in 2025 alone. Union leaders said the ongoing reductions show a lack of commitment to a merit-based system. They warned that continued layoffs could discourage talented individuals from pursuing careers in public service. The union also highlighted the loss of national security experts. Many of those affected have worked on critical issues, including international negotiations and crisis management.
AFGE has urged Congress to step in and defend federal workers. The union said lawmakers must protect labor rights and ensure fair treatment for civil servants. Union representatives plan to pursue multiple avenues to challenge the layoffs. They said they will take legal action, lobby Congress, and advocate for affected workers at every level. AFGE leaders emphasized that the issue goes beyond individual job losses. They said it raises broader questions about the future of the federal workforce and the role of career professionals in government.
The layoffs have intensified debate over how the government manages its workforce. Supporters of workforce changes often argue for efficiency and flexibility. Critics, however, warn that cutting experienced staff can have long-term consequences.
