Foreign policy is a complex, interdependent field that reflects and influences the interests, values and aspirations of state and non-state actors in the global arena. It involves the use of hard and soft power to promote national interests, shape the rules that govern the international system, and advance a shared vision for a just and stable world.
Achieving these goals often requires challenging political challenges. It may involve forming coalitions with reluctant allies, dealing with intransigent adversaries, and concluding complicated economic agreements. It also can mean protecting human rights in places that have trouble defending them, combating climate change and other major environmental threats, or providing humanitarian aid for those who need it most.
The State Department works to create a world that is receptive to the United States’ national interests and values. It aims to promote transformational diplomacy by working with partners to improve the lives of people around the globe. This includes advancing environmental stewardship, fostering economic growth and social development, and addressing urgent humanitarian challenges such as the fight against climate change and food insecurity.
The Department also promotes a sense of mutual understanding between Americans and people in other countries by connecting with global audiences through an array of public diplomacy activities, from hosting international visitors at U.S. embassies to providing information outreach support for a global network of more than 140 embassies and consulates. This work is facilitated by the efforts of thousands of diplomats and other American personnel in all corners of the globe.