Summary: When policymakers and analysts discuss U.S. spending for international efforts, they focus on the programs and activities funded by the international affairs budget account--known as the "150 account." This account funds U.S. embassies as well as the bulk of foreign aid. It also pays the cost of U.S. membership in international organizations, such as the United Nations and the World Bank, and the operations of foreign affairs agencies, such as the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development. In fiscal year 1998, Congress appropriated about $19 billion for such programs. However, many international activities similar to those funded in the 150 account are conducted by a host of domestic agencies through other budget accounts. This testimony is intended to illuminate the nature and magnitude of U.S. international involvement through programs and activities funded in accounts other than the 150 account, including examples of the associated activities and the agencies. GAO also discusses (1) the increasing participation of domestic agencies in international activities and the complexities of this involvement and (2) how the Government Performance and Results Act could be used to address coordination issues and congressional oversight challenges that emanate from the changing and growing U.S. engagement with other countries.
