Bureau of Diplomatic Security

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Bureau of Diplomatic Security

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS) is the security and law enforcement arm of the United States Department of State. It is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of U.S. diplomatic personnel, facilities, and information worldwide. The Bureau of Diplomatic Security is a vital component of the U.S. government's efforts to protect its interests and personnel abroad.

History

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security was established in 1985, following the Inman Report, which highlighted the need for improved security measures at U.S. diplomatic missions. The report was commissioned after a series of terrorist attacks on U.S. embassies and consulates in the early 1980s. The creation of DS marked a significant step in enhancing the security of U.S. diplomatic operations.

Functions

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security performs a wide range of functions, including:

• Diplomatic security: Protecting U.S. embassies, consulates, and diplomatic personnel around the world.
• Counterterrorism: Implementing measures to prevent and respond to terrorist threats against U.S. diplomatic missions.
• Cybersecurity: Safeguarding sensitive information and communication systems from cyber threats.
• Criminal investigations: Conducting investigations into crimes involving U.S. diplomatic personnel and facilities.
• Protective services: Providing personal protection to high-ranking U.S. officials and visiting foreign dignitaries.

Organizational Structure

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security is headed by the Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomatic Security, who reports directly to the United States Secretary of State. The Bureau is divided into several offices and divisions, each responsible for specific aspects of diplomatic security. These include:

• Office of Protective Operations
• Office of Investigations and Counterintelligence
• Office of Cyber and Technology Security
• Office of Overseas Protective Operations
• Office of Domestic Operations

Training and Education

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security operates the Diplomatic Security Training Center (DSTC), where DS agents and other security personnel receive specialized training in areas such as protective security, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity. The training center also offers courses for foreign security officials through the Antiterrorism Assistance Program.

Notable Incidents

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security has been involved in several high-profile incidents, including the Benghazi attack in 2012, where U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and three other Americans were killed. The incident led to increased scrutiny of DS's security measures and prompted further enhancements to diplomatic security protocols.

Related Pages

• United States Department of State
• Diplomatic Security Service
• Inman Report
• Benghazi attack
• Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomatic Security
• Diplomatic Security Training Center
• Antiterrorism Assistance Program