Report Contents
This Semiannual Report to the Congress covers the oversight activities of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) for the Department of State (Department) and the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) from April 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024. OIG is responsible for the oversight of more than $87 billion in Department and USAGM programs and operations and provides oversight for the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico, U.S. Section (USIBWC), a federal agency operating under the foreign policy guidance of the Department.
A high priority oversight area for OIG is Ukraine-related activities of the Department and USAGM. The complexity, scale, and timing of U.S. government efforts in response to Russia’s war against Ukraine demand robust oversight. Several related projects were completed this reporting period and are accordingly summarized in this Semiannual Report to the Congress.
Additionally, much of our work this reporting period focused on the top management and performance challenges facing the Department and USAGM, which are outlined in the annual Inspector General Statement on the Department of State’s Major Management and Performance Challenges and the Inspector General Statement on the U.S. Agency for Global Media’s Major Management and Performance Challenges.
During the reporting period, we issued 44 reports to improve the programs and operations of the agencies we oversee. Regarding compliance, we closed 342 recommendations associated with 119 reports. Of the 342 recommendations, 26 were significant and demonstrated implementation of crucial corrective actions by the Department, USIBWC, and USAGM.
On the investigative front, our work led to over $16.7 million in monetary results and 12 debarments. In addition, OIG participated in investigations that led to three arrests, nine indictments, and four convictions.
Our work would not be possible without the talent and dedication of the people who serve in OIG. My thanks to them, and to the Department, USAGM, USIBWC, and Congress for their support of our efforts.
Cardell K. Richardson, Sr.
Inspector General
September 30, 2024