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The change ends a observe of linking entry to division safety clearances to potential restrictions on staff’ potential to serve in nations to which they’ve shut ties. The guidelines have additionally been employed to forestall some division staff from engaged on points associated to these nations when based mostly in the USA.
Critics have mentioned the foundations discourage variety and have unjustly stunted the careers of Asian American diplomats and different teams who might need shut family members in nations the place they want to serve.
A 2021 proposal from congressional Democrats that aimed to raise the restrictions confirmed that the highest nations the place such restrictions had been used to dam State Division assignments had been China, Russia, Taiwan and Israel.
A senior State Division official, talking on the situation of anonymity beneath floor guidelines set by the division, mentioned the change was geared toward enhancing recruiting and securing a “various, dynamic, and entrepreneurial workforce.”
The official mentioned the division’s Bureau of Diplomatic Safety had lifted such restrictions for a lot of staff lately. They continue to be in place for greater than 600 staff however, in line with a 2021 legislation, the division can also be increasing attraction choices for affected people.
Christopher Barnes, president of AFGE Local 1534, which represents civil servants on the State Division and different businesses, mentioned the union believes that some restrictions are affordable however welcomed the transfer.
“If in case you have a clearance and you’re employed for the federal authorities, they’re in your small business and they need to be, as a result of it’s a nationwide safety challenge,” he mentioned.
“Nonetheless, on the flip facet, ought to your profession be affected negatively when you’re abroad, you meet any individual and also you fall in love, and need to get married?” he requested.
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