AFSA's Statement on USAID &

Additional Online Resources

The situation at USAID is unfolding rapidly, and AFSA is working hard to support and protect our members. The following roundup includes a link to our full press statement on USAID, as well as links to critical resources—including a virtual ‘Go Bag.’ 

AFSA’s Statement on the Dismantling of USAID: AFSA strongly objects to the administration’s decision to dismantle USAID, a move that threatens U.S. national security, appears to disregard Congressional authority, and undermines the dedicated professionals who serve America’s interests abroad. AFSA stands firmly with USAID’s Foreign Service Officers. Read our full press statement here. We encourage you to share it widely with your networks.  

Your Virtual ‘Go Bag’: Every Foreign Service professional understands the importance of a Go Bag—but do you have an employment Go Bag? AFSA has created a virtual "Go Bag" checklist, complete with key resources to help you stay prepared for the unexpected. This dynamic resource will be updated as circumstances evolve. We appreciate the input from members who have contributed suggestions via email and social media. For colleagues on administrative leave who may not have access to all the files on this checklist, we recommend reviewing what materials you do have and gathering them—even if they are older versions or drafts. 

Grievances & the Rights of Foreign Service Employees: AFSA’s January 29 message outlined the legal protections afforded to Foreign Service employees under the Foreign Service Act, including the right to file a grievance and the requirement that employees facing separation from the service must file a grievance with their agency before they go off the rolls. Please see AFSA’s website for the most recent grievance guidance and our grievance template.  Both the guidance and template will appear as linked text at the top of the page. Note that this updated guidance is intended for those facing separation from the Service. Also to note: You should only file your grievance after you’ve received news that you are being separated. 

Contacting Congress about USAID: AFSA members have asked how they can be helpful when reaching out to Congress in their personal capacities. AFSA suggests any outreach to members of Congress end with a call to action: 

“The Constitution grants Congress the power and responsibility to oversee the actions of the executive branch. It is crucial for Congress to fulfill its vital role in ensuring accountability and transparency in our government. As my elected Representative/Senator, I urge you to assert your constitutional authority to conduct thorough oversight over recent actions at USAID. Demand accountability, promote transparency, and protect the checks and balances that are fundamental to the nation.” 

Retirement Related Questions: In response to member questions, we have put together a detailed PowerPoint: Benefits at Retirement, Resignation, and Involuntary Separation. Retirement issues are complicated, and this resource is designed to provide an overview of what to expect and answer the most frequently asked questions. However, we are unable to address detailed questions about individual circumstances. Rather, we encourage you to contact your agency's retirement office or your retirement counselor for assistance. 

A Reminder About Email Maintenance: We're hearing that members are unexpectedly being locked out of their USAID email accounts. To stay connected, we recommend updating your primary email on our website to one where we can reach you. As an AFSA member, you already have an account. Log in using the email where you receive AFSA messages as your username. If needed, use the Forgot Your Password link on the login page. AFSA only sends messages to your primary email. To update it, go to My Account > Contact Info, add an alternate email, and set your preferred primary (marked by a flag icon). If you haven’t received AFSA emails, you can view recent messages here.  

In Case You Missed It: To see all AFSA’s member communications on the administration’s executive orders and memoranda, click here. 

Lastly, this and previous AFSA messages have outlined policies and procedures established by federal law. AFSA expects foreign affairs agencies to comply with these laws. If they fail to do so, AFSA is prepared to seek legal recourse through all appropriate channels.  We have been meeting with attorneys representing other unions and are monitoring lawsuits that have been filed challenging recent executive orders and other actions.  

As always, thank you for your service and dedication to our country.