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November 2017

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 published monthly (January-February and July-August issues combined) by the American Foreign Service Association.

The November issue focuses on Foreign Service authors.

We always welcome short, focused letters about FSJ content; please send them to journal@afsa.org.

FOCUS ON FOREIGN SERVICE AUTHORS

Writing and the Foreign Service

Unique experiences are the stuff of Foreign Service life—and compelling literature. One former FSO describes his journey to becoming a writer.

BY PETER KUJAWINSKI

On the Writing Roller Coaster

There’s no more everyday boredom, but don’t expect writing to be easier than your old job.

BY CHARLES RAY

In Their Own Write

We are pleased to present this year’s roundup of books by Foreign Service members and their families.

Of Related Interest

Here are recent books of interest to the foreign affairs community that were not written by members of the Foreign Service.

FEATURE

When Criticism Falls on Deaf Ears: The Case of U.S. Foreign Aid

Although economists and practitioners have questioned the theory behind foreign assistance to underdeveloped countries for more than four decades, the aid industry is bigger and stronger than ever today.

BY THOMAS DICHTER

PERSPECTIVES

President's Views

Serving in Hardship Posts

BY BARBARA STEPHENSON

Speaking Out

Owning Leadership

BY MICHAEL PELLETIER

Reflections

An Ambassador Returns to China

BY BEA CAMP

AFSA NEWS

AFSA On the Hill

Supporting U.S. Policy Objectives

BY MARY DALY

State VP Voice

Doing Your Part: The Post Rep’s Role

BY KENNETH KERO-MENTZ