U.S. State Department removes DEI content from Foreign Service training

The U.S. Department of State has eliminated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) content from its Foreign Service training and personnel guidance. This move, part of broader reforms under the Trump administration, follows an internal review that found DEI-related materials had become embedded in diplomatic training during the previous administration.

The department stated that the previous guidelines, which encouraged diplomats to raise social inclusion, racial/gender equity, and LGBTQI+ issues with foreign officials, were often inconsistent with American diplomatic objectives. Under the prior system, DEI-related efforts were factored into performance reviews and promotion decisions, accounting for as much as 20 percent of certain evaluations.

Removed materials included texts on “white privilege,” systemic racism, and Critical Race Theory, as well as resources such as Robin DiAngelo’s “White Fragility.” The department is shifting its focus toward “merit, rigor, and accountability,” prioritizing practical diplomatic skills to address foreign policy, security threats, and national interests.