Overview

• The Trump administration's Executive Order 14173, signed in January 2025, bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs for U.S. federal contractors, including foreign companies working with the U.S. government.
• U.S. embassies in Europe, including in Paris, sent letters to companies in France, Denmark, and Belgium, demanding compliance with the order, sparking backlash from European governments.
• Denmark's Industry Minister Morten Bødskov has called for a coordinated European response, citing the letters as a potential trade barrier and a challenge to EU diversity laws.
• The Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot strongly opposed the directive, stating Belgium will not compromise on its commitment to diversity and inclusion principles.
• The U.S. Embassy in Paris clarified that the letters apply only to companies working with the U.S. government, but European officials remain concerned about broader implications for sovereignty and international trade.