While the President and Congress set foreign policy, the U.S. Department of State serves as a critical advisor and leader in foreign policy issues. The State Department is responsible for representing the United States at the United Nations, handling diplomatic issues including treaties and other agreements with foreign entities. They are also the agency responsible for helping Americans legally travel abroad and assisting foreigners who wish to visit or legally relocate to the United States.
Their website highlights Policy Issues, with topics including 5G Security, Coronovirus, Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Human Trafficking, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, and Treaties and International Agreements (links to Treaties in Force and text of agreements). The Countries and Areas section includes an A-Z list of countries with travel information, fact sheets, and embassies and consulates.
If you are a United States Citizen traveling or planning to travel it is important to know what services are available (and what are not). The best place to find this information is now at https://www.state.gov/travelers/. You can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for travel alerts and advisories at step.state.gov. In Case of Emergency: Call 1-888-407-4747 (U.S./Canada); +1-202-501-4444 (overseas); or contact the nearest embassy: go.usa.gov/xduQM. Please remember that while the embassy is there to assist with foreign relations, there are many things they cannot do including getting citizens out of jail, providing financial assistance, serve as interpreters, or provide legal advice. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the laws of the area you are visiting.
Sometimes crisis and emergency situations arise that are far bigger than the individual. A good resource for what can and cannot be provided during a crisis is available, but it is highly recommended that citizens have plans in place before traveling if possible. The State Department is available to help you find the resources you need to prepare and their website provides a wealth of information to get you started.
Popular services and resources include
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