US State Dept.'s Growing Language Barrier

[Francis Hult]

Atlantic Online

 

The State Dept.'s Growing Language Barrier

 

GAO recently released a report (http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09955.pdf) on "persistent foreign language shortfalls" in the Foreign Service, the diplomatic arm of the State department. 31% of overseas officers stationed at language-designated positions fall short of the speaking and reading proficiency requirements for their jobs. This number rises to roughly 40% when focused on officers serving in locations of strategic significance, like East Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

 

Full story:

http://politics.theatlantic.com/2009/09/americas_language_barrier.php

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