The transformation of consular affairs: the United States experience

The US consular service dates from the founding of the republic and has always had as its central mission assisting US citizens in difficulty abroad. Two major issues in the twenty-first century are transforming the way consular work is done. The first is the focus on security following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack. The need for improved border security to counter the threat of terrorism has led to more sophisticated visa screening and closer coordination with other government agencies. It has also raised the profile of the Bureau of Consular Affairs within the U.S. Government. The second issue is managing a growing public appetite for immediate information available on the internet. To satisfy these needs, the consular bureau has taken advantage of opportunities the internet offers for expanded outreach and as a result has shifted from a reactive to a proactive approach to the public. The process of developing a solid technological base has been evolutionary. The one constant in adapting technology to the particular needs of consular work is that of rapid change, and the rate of change accelerated in recent years. This paper traces the development of consular automation in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs and describes current programs in place to meet twenty-first century challenges. Although the focus is on consular developments, similar changes throughout the Department of State have altered the approach to political, economic, management and public diplomacy aspects of its mission. Work methods, especially involving use of the internet, are universally shared. Security and public outreach are central concerns throughout our Embassies. Technology has brought positive change to the entire State Department, and the transformation of consular affairs is an important part of this change.

About the author

Donna Hamilton has spent her career in consular affairs. After receiving an MA in International Relations from the University of Wisconsin, she joined the U.S. Foreign Service and served in consular positions in Bogota, Colombia; Mexico City, Mexico; and Thessaloniki, Greece. Other early assignments were as Chief of the Anti-Fraud Division and of the Systems Division in the Office of Visa Services. Later Mrs. Hamilton was Consul General in Lima, Peru and in San Jose, Costa Rica. She served in the State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs as Deputy Executive Director, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Visa Services, and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in charge of Overseas Citizens Services.