Inspection of Embassy Algiers, Algeria (01-FP-R-046)
Energy-rich Algeria provides significant opportunities for American diplomacy, but widespread violence in the early 1990s forced the Embassy to reduce staff and limit activities. As of early 2001, the capital (but not the countryside) was far safer, and the Department would like to conduct a more normal diplomacy program. The Embassy, however, is neither equipped nor staffed to do so. Extensive security precautions are still needed and limit what the Embassy can accomplish. The post must also cope with chronic deficiencies in almost all support operations, from housing to basic inventory controls. All American personnel live on the Embassy compounds, but wide disparities in housing quality lower morale. Housing should be upgraded. Although allowances are generous, it remains difficult to attract experienced personnel. Security constraints and short tours contribute to, but do not excuse, poor performance. For example, there was no inventory reconciliation for eight years. When the post finally reconciled its inventory in 2000, $1.8 million in equipment and supplies was missing. The number of American direct hire employees appears adequate for the post?s current responsibilities. Of the 35 American employees, 21 are in non-security-related positions. The Algerian staff forms the backbone of the post, but few had adequate supervision.
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