U.S. Pressures European Companies to Abandon Diversity Initiatives

[Social Media]

 

U.S. Pressures European Companies to Abandon Diversity Initiatives

 

In a move that extends domestic policy abroad, the Trump administration has directed certain European companies to discontinue their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This directive stems from an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which bans DEI initiatives within federal agencies and among government contractors.

 

U.S. embassies in Paris and other European Union capitals have sent letters to companies holding U.S. government contracts, urging compliance with the executive order. These letters include a questionnaire titled "Certification Regarding Compliance With Applicable Federal Anti-Discrimination Law," requiring companies to attest that their DEI programs do not violate U.S. anti-discrimination laws. 

 

 

The French Ministry of Foreign Trade has criticized this action, labeling it as unacceptable interference in domestic policies. The ministry emphasized that France and Europe will defend their companies, consumers, and values against such extraterritorial demands. 

 

Legal experts question the enforceability of this U.S. directive on foreign soil. Some European companies and their advisors are reportedly hesitant to respond, citing doubts about the legal basis for such demands. 

 

This development has heightened tensions between the U.S. and Europe, adding to existing disputes over trade policies and responses to global security issues. The Trump administration's recent imposition of additional tariffs on European goods has further strained relations, prompting the EU to consider reciprocal measures. 

 

In France, DEI programs have historically faced challenges due to legal restrictions on collecting racial and ethnic data. French law prohibits employers from considering individuals' origins in hiring or promotion decisions, reflecting the country's commitment to secularism and equality. 

 

Companies in sectors such as aviation, defense, consulting, and infrastructure are among those potentially affected by the U.S. directive. The Financial Times reports that while some firms have received the compliance letter, others are still assessing their position. 

 

This move underscores the Trump administration's broader campaign against DEI initiatives, which it argues perpetuate discrimination. Critics contend that dismantling these programs undermines efforts to address systemic inequalities and promote inclusive workplaces. 

 

The situation remains fluid, with European companies weighing their legal obligations against their commitments to diversity and inclusion. The outcome of this transatlantic policy clash could have significant implications for international business operations and the future of corporate DEI efforts.

 

Based on a report by Financial Times  2025-03-31

 

 

 

[JimHuaHin]

LOL   Most of the world does not follow the USA.

[JonnyF]

Good. The US should not deal with companies that employ racist, sexist hiring practices like DEI.

 

Well done for taking a stand.

[hotsun]

9 minutes ago, JimHuaHin said:

LOL   Most of the world does not follow the USA.

Thats why they will suffer the most

[Gsxrnz]

The racists and misandrists don't really know what they want. Equity will be achieved only when the work related accidental death rates are 50/50 male/female and ethnically represent demographics - and that ain't gonna happen any time soon. 

 

Feel free to google misandry and misandrist for clarification - it really is a word. 

[HappyExpat57]

22 minutes ago, JimHuaHin said:

LOL   Most of the world does not follow the USA.

And there are fewer by the minute. Soon Murikkka is gonna stand alone, on top of a dung heap of red hats and white robes.

[300sd]

Great and while you're at it tell them to get rid of their ESG initiatives too.

[Tug]

One of our posters coined a great phrase MakeAmericaGoAway …MAGA …I suspect most governments will tell trump to bugger off and rightly so.