18 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2025 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL Site of the Month: America’s Diplomats The appearance of a particular site or podcast is for information only and does not constitute an endorsement. This month, we highlight the America’s Diplomats video series, which shines a spotlight on citizens from all over the United States who represent America abroad. Through one-on-one interviews, the series traces the personal journeys of distinguished public servants and offers first-person insights into the challenges and rewards of a diplomatic career. Launched by the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University, with support from the Una Chapman Cox Foundation, the project celebrates the service of career diplomats and foreign policy professionals and inspires future generations to follow in their footsteps. Speakers share how they were inspired to join the State Department, the mentors who shaped their path, and the skills that sustained them through decades of service. Episodes feature leaders including Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Ambassador Don Lu, Ambassador Todd Robinson, Ambassador Barbara Bodine, Under Secretary Uzra Zeya, and many others, each offering a distinct perspective on advancing U.S. interests in a complex world. At a time when a strong public service is more critical than ever, America’s Diplomats offers an honest and compelling window into the lives of those who have shaped U.S. foreign policy across administrations. Watch the series at https://www.americas-diplomats.com/. from the State Department on when, or whether, State Magazine will return. We’ll be keeping an eye out. Oversight Lessons on Afghanistan The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) released its July 30, 2025, quarterly report to Congress, before the office closes permanently this fall. Since 2008, SIGAR has produced 68 reports, creating the most detailed independent record of the U.S. reconstruction effort in Afghanistan. The latest report highlights the enduring lessons of that effort. Recent audits uncovered compliance lapses among contractors, adding to a record 171 criminal convictions and nearly $1.7 billion recovered. More broadly, SIGAR points to systemic problems such as corruption, poorly coordinated projects, and unsustainable programs that collapsed once U.S. funding ended. Even after the 2021 withdrawal, the office tracked more than $21 billion in ongoing aid under Taliban rule, ensuring transparency in how funds were used. As SIGAR closes its doors, its central warning resonates beyond Afghanistan: Without clear goals, local buy-in, and strong oversight, reconstruction efforts are likely to fail. To read the report, visit https://bit.ly/ SIGAR68. n This issue of Talking Points was compiled by Mark Parkhomenko.
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