The Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) offers guidance and referral to those who may be victims of domestic violence overseas, including victims of spousal abuse and child abuse. While the abuse may be physical in nature, neglect and emotional abuse can also be very damaging, and since their effects may not be obvious to people outside the family, others are less likely to intervene.
For anyone in an immediate situation involving violence or abuse, call 911 if in the U.S., and Post One if overseas for immediate help and intervention.
Domestic violence often involves criminal conduct (assault, battery, rape) and is considered by the Department of State to be notoriously disgraceful conduct (3 FAM 4139.14). As such, it is grounds for taking disciplinary action against an employee. According to 3 FAM 1815 any person who suspects an employee is involved in domestic violence is required to report this information to the Family Advocacy Officer (FAO) at post. The FAO would be the Deputy Chief of Mission, but any type of abuse may also be reported to the Regional Security Officer or the Medical Unit. For more information on child abuse, refer to 7 FAM 1720.
The Department of State’s Victims’ Resource Advocacy Program (VRAP) provides advocacy and on-going support during investigations conducted by the Bureau of Diplomatic Security at VRAP@state.gov or call 855-810-SURV (7878).
The Office of Personnel Management’s Responding to Domestic Violence: Where Federal Employees Can Find Help is a thorough resource guide that addresses the issue of adult domestic violence.
GCLO is available to provide additional resources and information at GCLOAskSupportServices@state.gov.
Advocacy Resource
The Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) resources do not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any particular organizations by GCLO or the Department of State.
- Pathways to Safety International: call 833-SAFE-833, or email crisis@pathwaystosafety.org
- USA National Domestic Violence Hotline: (Voice) 800-799-SAFE, (TTY) 1-800-787-3224