Security Strategy of the Bureau of Diplomatic Security

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS) is the law enforcement and security organization of the U.S. Department of State. As such, it is responsible for many law enforcement and security related issues within the Department of State. One of these issues is to provide security to American embassies, consulates, their staffs, and other designated American interests overseas. This thesis examined the strategy used by the Bureau of Diplomatic Security to provide security for American civilian interests overseas and whether this strategy remains relevant in the current threat environment. The examination was divided into three areas: (1) the current operational environment; (2) current DS operations; and (3) trends influencing future DS security operations. The current operational environment revealed a continuing threat to American civilian interests overseas. The review of current DS operations illustrated an organization attempting to address the current threats, but involved in a seemingly never ending threat, counter-threat escalation with those that wish to do harm to American civilian interests overseas. Finally, the review of future trends revealed DS will continue to expand its role as the Department of State becomes involved in more non-permissive environments and humanitarian crises.