May-June 2026
The Foreign Service Journal covers foreign affairs from an insider’s perspective, providing thought-provoking articles on international issues, the practice of diplomacy, and the U.S. Foreign Service. Including the AFSA News section, The Journal is now published bimonthly by the American Foreign Service Association.
The May-June issue focuses on AI in diplomacy.
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FOCUS ON AI IN DIPLOMACY
Leading from the Edge: How Diplomats Are Actually Using AI
Both individual diplomats and teams at State are building artificial intelligence into their workflows with tools they already have at hand.
Beyond Borders: What U.S. Diplomats Can Learn from Global AI Innovation
If we are serious about AI-powered diplomacy, we need to look beyond our borders and learn from our strategic partners and competitors.
AI Should Assist, Not Replace, U.S. Diplomats
The work of diplomats on the ground in foreign countries can be made easier with artificial intelligence. But the diplomats themselves cannot be replaced.
Transforming Diplomatic Productivity with AI
Judicious deployment of artificial intelligence could incentivize knowledge transfer and transform productivity at U.S. embassies.
Are AI Consular Officers in Our Future?
As the derided “drudge work” of the Foreign Service, visa adjudication is often seen as the low-hanging fruit for AI replacement. But is it?
US(AI)D: What Launching AI Tools for Communicators Taught Us
USAID tested the use of AI tools with a team of communications specialists around the world. The pilot’s originators present the takeaways.
At the Intersection of AI and Foreign Policy: A Q&A with Kelsey D. Atherton
The FSJ interviewed a military technology journalist and expert on foreign policy to learn about the risks and rewards of AI in our industry.
FEATURE
First Contact: Uncle Sam Meets Vladimir Putin
Identifying future national leaders early is no simple task. Once-classified cables share U.S. diplomats’ early views on a much younger Vladimir Putin.
LIFE AFTER THE FOREIGN SERVICE
Beyond the Mission: Reinventing Yourself After Government Service
Whether you’ve chosen to leave the Foreign Service or had the choice made for you, these career transition tips can help you make the move successfully.
EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT
Education in the Foreign Service: Navigating Transitions, Neurodiversity, and Academic Pathways
Planning for three critical transition points can dramatically improve educational outcomes for Foreign Service students.