[3][4] In this labor/management relations capacity, American Foreign Service Association negotiates with the agency management on personnel policies and practices affecting members' working conditions.

American Foreign Service Association also represents members in formal grievance proceedings, office of security and inspector general investigations, and EEO cases, while providing them informal assistance in dealing with administrative problems.

In its efforts to explain the Foreign Service's role and to build domestic constituencies to support its activities, American Foreign Service Association operates a speakers' bureau,[6] which makes experienced diplomats available to speak to a wide range of groups all across the country.

In addition, these awards honor contributions to American Foreign Service Association and those who have excelled in the advancement of democracy.

The contributions should include involvement in foreign policy development and/or implementation as well as efforts that advance the diplomatic profession.

The presentation takes place during American Foreign Service Association's annual Awards Ceremony in June in the Benjamin Franklin Diplomatic Room of the State Department.

It is offered to an inspiring and respected diplomat or public servant for their contributions to the conduct and success of American diplomacy.

Each year, American Foreign Service Association honors[12] the State Department employee whose essay has been chosen as the best from among their cohort during the National War College graduation ceremonies.

[13] Two large memorial plaques in the C Street lobby of the Department of State honor colleagues who have given their lives in service to their country.

The competition awards a $2,500 cash prize, a paid trip to Washington, D.C., to meet the Secretary of State and a tuition-free Semester at Sea upon enrollment at an accredited post-secondary institution.