EU mulls embassy staff cuts, raising diplomatic influence concerns

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Politico
28 Nov 2024 16:41

Concerns have been raised about the fate of nearly 800 local staffers, many of whom may face layoffs or difficulties relocating.

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Flags of European Union member countries flap in the wind outside the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024 (AP)

The European Commission is exploring plans to significantly reduce staff numbers at many of its global embassies to redirect resources toward regions of strategic interest, Politico reported on Thursday.

The proposal, part of an effort to manage ballooning costs within the EU’s External Action Service (EEAS), has sparked concerns about its potential impact on the bloc’s diplomatic influence, particularly in Africa and Latin America.

According to a document obtained by Politico, the reform aims to prioritize diplomatic presence in countries seeking EU membership, G20 nations, emerging powers, and regions where instability poses a direct threat to EU interests.

The cuts, however, would come at the expense of embassies in over 30 African countries, as well as significant reductions in Latin America and parts of Asia. Even Brazil, a major regional power, is reportedly on the list of embassies facing staffing cuts.

"We would be leaving a tiny delegation in places like Sudan or Niger—that’s just the wrong message, especially when we have a US administration that seems less interested in the outside world," an EU official told Politico on the condition of anonymity.

Critics warn that such moves could create a vacuum for rivals like Russia and China to expand their influence, noted the news website.

Global Gateway project

According to Politico, the reform is tied to the EU’s Global Gateway project, an initiative aimed at countering China’s Belt and Road Initiative by enhancing trade and infrastructure links with third countries. Yet some officials caution against reducing EU foreign policy to the confines of this single project.

While the Commission insists no embassies would close, the restructuring would consolidate diplomatic staff into regional hubs, potentially leaving some delegations with only minimal personnel.

Concerns have also been raised about the fate of nearly 800 local staffers, many of whom may face layoffs or difficulties relocating.

The budgetary strain driving these discussions comes after the EEAS exceeded its 2024 financial limits due to rising operational costs and inflation.

"Maintaining the status quo is not an option," the internal document states, describing the current network as misaligned with the EU’s evolving priorities.

High stakes

The proposal has faced internal pushback within the EEAS, with some officials warning that the move could weaken the EU’s global standing.

Smaller member states, which rely on EU embassies for intelligence and diplomatic access, are also closely watching the developments.

The recommendations are expected to be debated in December by Kaja Kallas, the EU’s incoming High Representative for Foreign Affairs, alongside the European Commission, as per the report.