Comprehensive oversight of foreign assistance programs and operations at the U.S. Department of State (Department) remains a top priority for the Office of Inspector General (OIG). OIG's experience overseeing foreign assistance administered through the Department is extensive. From 2016 through May 2025, OIG issued 658 recommendations to improve the Department’s foreign assistance programs. During the same timeframe, OIG’s recommendations from foreign assistance–related reports identified $407.5 million in funds put to better use and $258.6 million in questioned costs.
OIG is working with the Department, Congress, and other stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted oversight following the realignment of foreign assistance activities from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to the Department. Our work in this area will aid the Department in managing its foreign assistance programs and provide Members of Congress with the critical information they need to fulfill their legislative mandate.
OIG’s Risk‑Based Oversight and Investigations in West Bank, Gaza, and Broader Region outlines State OIG’s plan to conduct coordinated, risk‑based investigations and oversight to safeguard U.S. assistance by preventing misuse of funds, strengthening accountability, and addressing key risks across Israel, the West Bank, Gaza, and the broader Middle East region
In addition to 22 ongoing foreign assistance oversight projects, OIG is planning 15 new foreign assistance–focused audits, inspections, and evaluations in FY 2026.
For additional background on OIG’s work, please see our July 2025 Information Sheet on Foreign Assistance Oversight.
Reporting Fraud, Waste, and Abuse to the State OIG Hotline
OIG has oversight responsibility for all foreign assistance programs and operations administered by the Department, including programs and activities recently integrated into the Department’s operations. Individuals with information about fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement, as well as other crimes or violations of federal laws, rules, and regulations relating to foreign assistance programs and operations at the Department are encouraged to report this information to the OIG Hotline. To learn about reporting foreign assistance–related fraud, waste, or abuse, and whistleblower protection, please visit OIG's Hotline page and Whistleblower Protection page.