The Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in Tripoli supports the mission of the United States in Libya through promotion of American education, culture and civilization as well as U.S. foreign policy goals. The Public Affairs Section explains and advocates American policy, acts as a point of contact for media, education and cultural relations, and advises the U.S. Embassy in Libya on issues of public diplomacy.
The Public Affairs Section also provides many educational and cultural services through its office of Education USA and in coordination with the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). Working closely with other sections of the Embassy and with Libyan organizations, it seeks to encourage broader understanding of the United States and its relationship with Libya. The Public Affairs Section also sponsors online virtual cultural groups, virtual speakers, and other programs in which Libyans and Americans can share ideas and information on a wide variety of issues.
The Public Affairs Section oversees a series of ECA-funded exchange programs such as the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) which brings Libyan professionals to the U.S. for up to three weeks of exposure to the U.S. society. Other exchange programs focus more precisely on young leaders, journalists, or NGO leaders.
American performers and cultural specialists may be invited or co-sponsored for virtual performances or presentations by the Public Affairs Section through ECA or from Europe or neighboring countries, either in response to a Libyan request or when the Public Affairs Section identifies a particular need that corresponds to larger bilateral goals.