The Trump administration is extending its stance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to European companies.
Officials have sent warnings to firms in France and the European Union that hold U.S. government contracts, urging them to comply with an executive order banning DEI programs or risk losing their contracts.
The letters, distributed by American embassies across Europe, require companies to certify that they do not run DEI programs that violate U.S. anti-discrimination laws. The document states that certification is a key factor in government payment decisions and is subject to the False Claims Act.
Reports indicate that diplomats in Belgium and Eastern European countries have also sent similar warnings. The French business daily Les Echos was the first to report the existence of these letters, which have sparked concern among European businesses. Sectors such as aviation, defense, consulting, and infrastructure could be affected by these demands.
At the same time, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission has launched an investigation into DEI policies at Walt Disney and its ABC division, signaling a wider crackdown on corporate diversity efforts.
The French finance ministry has voiced its concerns, stating that the U.S. approach does not align with France’s values. This development adds to rising tensions between the U.S. and Europe, as trade disputes over tariffs on cars and wine, as well as geopolitical disagreements, continue to strain relations.