Department of State

The Department of State's overarching mission is to "advance freedom for the benefit of the American people and the international community by helping to build and sustain a more democratic, secure, and prosperous world composed of well-governed states that respond to the needs of their people, reduce widespread poverty, and act responsibly within the international system." The Secretary of State also chairs the board of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, a U.S. government corporation that provides assistance to some of the poorest countries in the world.

The 2007-2012 Department of State and USAID Strategic Plan notes State must address a variety of challenges to U.S. security interests, development efforts, and democratic ideals, including

• the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction,
• terrorism,
• and the spread of disease and environmental degradation.

State also faces daunting staffing and language proficiency gaps, critical reconstruction and democracy-building challenges throughout the world, and an ongoing challenge to promote the image of the United States abroad.

State's Strategic Plan outlines seven strategic goals: (1) achieving peace and security; (2) governing justly and democratically; (3) investing in people; (4) promoting economic growth and prosperity; (5) providing humanitarian assistance; (6) promoting international understanding; and (7) strengthening our consular and management capabilities.