• France’s trade ministry condemned the US for sending letters to French companies regarding Trump's diversity policies.
• US lawmakers demand compliance with rules banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
• French officials characterized the US letter as interference, asserting the importance of their own values.

France's response to the recent US demands highlights ongoing tensions between the two nations over business policies. Following letters sent by the US embassy in Paris, warning French companies about compliance with the Trump administration's rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, French officials expressed strong disapproval. The communications were described as "unacceptable interference" and an attempt by the US government to impose its values on French commerce, according to statements made by Le Monde and South China Morning Post.

The letters, sent to various French firms, included questions demanding that these companies certify their non-compliance with DEI programs. These programs are designed to encourage the representation of historically marginalized groups, such as people of color and women, yet they have increasingly come under fire from certain political factions in the US, particularly those aligned with former President Donald Trump, who has characterized DEI initiatives as contradictory to the meritocratic principles of American business.

As stated in the letter, Trump's executive order prohibits DEI efforts for all federal contractors. It insisted that French companies fill out and return a certification form within five days, confirming they do not engage in DEI practices that run afoul of US anti-discrimination laws. Some interpretations suggest that compliance with these requirements could result in violations of existing French laws that promote equality and diversity in the workplace, further complicating the matter.

Aurore Bergé, France’s Minister for Gender Equality, commented on the situation, asserting that such demands represent a form of "diktat" imposed on French businesses and that many firms are opting not to respond, as they perceive the request as an ultimatum from the US. Minister Bergé detailed France's commitment to upholding its values surrounding inclusion and equity, indicating that “it’s out of the question that we will prevent our business from promoting social progress.”

French Economy Minister Eric Lombard echoed these sentiments, stating that Trump's views on DEI do not align with French principles. Amidst this diplomatic hurdle, the US Embassy has yet to respond to the pushback from French officials, leaving the situation in a state of uncertainty. With rising tensions regarding tariffs and trade policies, this development may further strain US-French relations.

For more details, you can read the full accounts from Jakarta Post, TRT Global, and Newsweek.