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November 2021

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.

COVER STORY: USAID AT 60

USAID at 60: An Enduring Purpose, a Complex Legacy

Here is an anniversary review of the agency’s founding and evolution, as well as its shortcomings and accomplishments.

BY JOHN NORRIS

FOCUS ON FOREIGN SERVICE AUTHORS

In Their Own Write

We are pleased to present this year’s collection of books by members of the Foreign Service community.

Of Related Interest

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

FEATURE

A Partnership-Centered Approach to the Indo-Pacific

To maintain peace and prosperity in the trans-Pacific and beyond, the United States should rely on a proven strength.

BY JONATHAN AHLSTROM

APPRECIATION

Supporting Special Needs Families Abroad

Special needs families have a lot on their plate. Learning to connect with them will help the whole Foreign Service community thrive.

BY KAREM R. ENSLEY

FS HERITAGE

PERSPECTIVES

President’s Views

We’re All in This Together

BY ERIC RUBIN

Letter from the Editor

The Foreign Service Is Writing

BY SHAWN DORMAN

Message from the Hill

The Climate Change Challenge

BY SENATOR SHELDON WHITEHOUSE

Speaking Out

A Paradigm Shift for Diversity

BY LIA MILLER, ANA ESCROGIMA AND CHRISTINA TILGHMAN

Reflections

Forestalling a Democracy Crisis in Paraguay

BY ROBERT E. SERVICE

AFSA NEWS

State VP Voice

Update on Priority Issues for Members

BY TOM YAZDGERDI

USAID VP Voice

Reflections on an Anniversary: USAID at 60

BY JASON SINGER

Retiree VP Voice

Steps to Manage Your Retirement

BY JOHN K. NALAND

FCS VP Voice

Turns Out, the Government Does Spy on You

BY JAY CARREIRO