America First Policy Directive To The Secretary Of State

January 20, 2025

View Original

Purpose: Redefine U.S. foreign policy to prioritize American interests and citizens, ensuring “America First” in all diplomatic actions.
Policy Guidance: The Secretary of State is directed to realign the Department’s policies, programs, personnel, and operations to reflect the “America First” approach.
General Provisions:
- Agency Authority: The order does not impair existing legal authorities granted to executive departments or affect the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
- Implementation Conditions: Subject to applicable law and the availability of appropriations.
- Legal Enforcement: The order does not create any enforceable rights or benefits against the United States or its entities.

The “America First” policy directive may lead to a shift in international collaborations and partnerships, potentially affecting Vanderbilt University’s global research initiatives and partnerships.
There is a risk that changes in foreign policy could impact international students and faculty, affecting their ability to study, work, or collaborate with Vanderbilt University.
The emphasis on prioritizing American interests might result in reduced funding or support for programs that involve international cooperation or foreign aid, which could impact research projects and academic programs at Vanderbilt.
Vanderbilt University may need to reassess its international strategies and partnerships to align with the new foreign policy direction, ensuring continued compliance and relevance.

Vanderbilt’s International Programs may need to adjust their strategies to accommodate changes in foreign policy, potentially affecting study abroad opportunities and international collaborations.
The Office of International Student and Scholar Services might experience increased demand for support and guidance as international students and faculty navigate potential changes in visa and immigration policies.
Research Centers focusing on international studies and global issues may need to pivot their focus to align with the new policy priorities, potentially impacting funding and research directions.
The Peabody College of Education and Human Development may see changes in its international education programs, requiring adjustments to curriculum and partnerships.

Changes in foreign policy could lead to shifts in federal funding priorities, potentially affecting grants and financial support for international research and collaboration.
Vanderbilt University might need to explore alternative funding sources for programs that are impacted by the “America First” policy, particularly those involving international partnerships.
There may be increased opportunities for funding in areas that align with American interests, requiring strategic adjustments in research focus and grant applications.
The potential impact on international student enrollment could affect tuition revenue, necessitating adjustments in financial planning and resource allocation.

Relevance Score: 4 (The order presents a need for potential major changes or transformations of programs.)

Vanderbilt’s Office of Federal Relations should monitor changes in foreign policy directives and assess their potential impact on international collaborations and partnerships. This will help ensure that the university’s global initiatives align with the new America First policy.
The Department of Political Science should analyze the implications of the America First policy on international relations and global stability. This research can provide valuable insights for academic discourse and policy recommendations.
Vanderbilt’s International Student Office should evaluate how changes in foreign policy might affect international students and scholars. Proactive measures should be taken to support these individuals and maintain Vanderbilt’s diverse academic community.

The executive order presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Center for International Studies to engage in research and dialogue on the effects of America First policies. By hosting conferences and publishing findings, the center can contribute to the national conversation on foreign policy.
Vanderbilt can leverage its expertise in international law and diplomacy to offer policy recommendations that balance national interests with global cooperation. This could enhance the university’s reputation as a thought leader in international affairs.

Relevance Score: 3 (Some adjustments are needed to processes or procedures to align with the new foreign policy directives.)

Average Relevance Score: 2.8

N/A: The order directs the Secretary of State to act “as soon as practicable” without specifying a concrete timeline.

Relevance Score: 1

Department of State: Directed to realign its policies, programs, personnel, and operations to reflect an America First foreign policy, emphasizing American interests.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB): While not directly tasked by this directive, its established functions regarding budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals are noted as unaffected, indicating its continued role.

Relevance Score: 1 (Only 1 or 2 agencies are impacted by the order.)

Secretary of State – Tasked with issuing the necessary guidance to align Department of State policies, programs, personnel, and operations with an America First foreign policy.

Relevance Score: 5 (Impacts a Cabinet official, with directives affecting high-level foreign policy implementation).