Trump Demands Sweden Abandon DEI Policies!

Stockholm officials have vehemently rejected a demand from the U.S. Embassy requiring adherence to anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in all contracts with the city, calling the request “completely bizarre.” According to a report from Swedish news outlet Dagens Nyheter, the embassy is attempting to enforce these policies on both government offices and private businesses operating in Stockholm.

The demand, delivered in a letter accompanying proposed contracts, stipulates that Stockholm’s urban planning office must refrain from prioritizing DEI initiatives. Swedish suppliers are also being asked to certify they do not utilize inclusion programs. Jan Valeskog, Stockholm’s urban planning councilor, stated the city “will never sign” such a contract.

The U.S. Embassy’s actions appear to be part of a broader effort, with reports surfacing that similar letters have been sent to contractors globally since February 2025. This marks the first publicly reported instance of the demand being directed towards a foreign government organization.

According to Valeskog, the U.S. could face difficulties obtaining building permits for future projects in Stockholm if it terminates its relationship with the city’s planning office – a consequence he suggests is their problem, not Stockholm’s.

The Swedish government maintains that complying with the U.S. demand would violate Swedish law. Minister for Gender Equality and Working Life, Nina Larsson, emphasized that Swedish companies are legally obligated to actively combat discrimination and promote equal rights, facing potential penalties for non-compliance. She affirmed that Swedish businesses should operate with confidence under the protection of Swedish law.

This situation presents a significant diplomatic friction point. While the U.S. is within its rights to dictate terms for its own funding, attempting to impose domestic policy preferences – particularly those perceived as discriminatory – on a sovereign nation and its businesses is a questionable tactic. It risks damaging international relations and undermining established legal frameworks designed to protect equality and prevent discrimination. The Swedish government’s firm stance is understandable, and the situation highlights a growing tension between national sovereignty and the reach of U.S. influence.