Belgian government does not fold in Trump’s threat: « Immediately contacted to convey our concerns unambiguously »
The US government asks for European companies with which they collaborate, including Belgian, to sign and prove the anti-diversity policy of Donald Trump. The Belgian government is not going to bow to the US president.
Various European companies, including Belgian, have received a letter and a questionnaire from the US government, asking whether they have anti -discrimination projects within the company. If so, it could have consequences for cooperation with the US government, it is said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Pensions Jan Jambon (N-VA) has already rejected the American pressure on the diversity policy of European companies. « We have a culture of non-discrimination in Europe and we have to continue it, » said Jambon on the French-speaking TV channel RTL-TVI on Sunday evening. « We have no lessons from the boss of America. »
The FPS Foreign Affairs also immediately contacted the American embassy to unambiguously convey its concerns. Vice-primary minister Maxime Prévot regrets that the US, a country whose administration has worked as a pioneer in the past for shared values such as diversity, is now taking a step back. “Diversity and inclusion are not fashion words, but foundations of a strong and dynamic society. They strengthen our economy, promote innovation and ensure that talent comes into its own. But let one thing be clear: Belgium will not take a step back. We will remain right behind our values. Free entrepreneurship also means being free to attract the best people.”
Minister of Equal Opportunities Rob Beenders (Vooruit) adds that « » diversity, equality and inclusion are not only fundamental values, but also crucial components for the successful functioning of modern organizations. » « Companies that embrace diversity, benefit from more creativity, innovation and a better connection with their customers. »
According to the French newspaper Le Figaro, the American government document refers to a decree that Donald Trump signed back in the White House on his first day. That put an end to the programs that stimulate equal opportunities within the US federal government. That decree is, as stated in the letter, « also required to all suppliers and service providers to the US government ».
France also reacted before. The French Ministry of Trade spoke of « unacceptable American interference » and assured that « France and Europe will defend their companies and their consumers, but also their values. »
