What does ARB mean in UNCLASSIFIED

An Accountability Review Board (ARB) is a panel convened by the State Department to review and assess incidents that have significant security implications for US Government operations abroad. ARBs are often conducted when serious incidents involving US government personnel, such as terrorist attacks, occur overseas. The board typically evaluates the circumstances surrounding an incident, identifies any deficiencies in security practices, and recommends corrective measures.

The ARB is composed of independent members appointed by the Secretary of State who may include private citizens, senior public servants from other Federal agencies, or representatives from international organizations. The board has access to all relevant information regarding the incident under review, including diplomatic cables and reports from State Department personnel on the ground. After conducting their investigation and considering various testimonies, the board produces a report containing their findings and recommendations for future prevention of similar events.

ARB investigations provide key insight into how certain security situations can be managed more effectively in the future. The reports issued after an investigation can guide policy makers when making decisions on how best to protect US citizens abroad in similar scenarios. The reports also provide valuable information suggesting ways that management processes could be improved to prevent future incidents.

While there is no standard timeline for an ARB investigation and each case will depend on its own unique circumstances, typically they take anywhere between two weeks to multiple months to complete depending upon time constraints as well as nature of incident(s). In some cases with complex issues and wide-ranging witnesses/participants; investigations may last up to one year or more.

Generally speaking, there are usually about 3-4 independent experts that comprise the board itself as well as additional support staff including investigators who assist with collecting data points throughout the course of the inquiry. Depending upon the size and scope of particular incident under review however; additional personnel may be required.

During any given inquiry evidence such as diplomatic cables, witness testimonies or any other material that's pertinent to a review can be considered by members of the board if deemed appropriate—allowing them ample opportunity to reach informed decisions without bias or prejudice.

Yes — individuals directly involved with a specific incident being investigated cannot serve on or participate in a review—this restriction helps ensure objectivity while preventing those parties' personal interests or opinions influencing proceedings.

Yes — these documents are available publicly through Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA) requests online via FOIA requests email [email protected]. Additionally most publications are made available through library archives where applicable.