Summary

France condemned U.S. interference after the U.S. embassy in Paris warned French firms against using diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, citing a Trump executive order banning such initiatives.

The U.S. letter required companies to certify DEI non-compliance or risk jeopardizing U.S. contracts.

France’s trade ministry called the move “unacceptable,” vowing to defend national values and businesses.

French law prohibits race-based hiring metrics, focusing instead on gender and socioeconomic inclusion.