Breaking News: Authorities in Stockholm, Sweden, called out a “bizarre” letter they got from the U.S. government ordering that they end diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in the city…see more

“It’s so bizarre,” said Jan Valeskog, Stockholm’s vice-mayor for planning. “It’s our political priorities that count, not the ones from this embassy or any other embassies.”

In March, European officials lambasted. the US after companies across the continent said they had received letters informing them that the Trump administration’s crackdown on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives also applied to foreign firms looking to do business with the US government.

The letter – described by French officials as “a form of interference” – asked recipients to complete, sign and return a form certifying that they “do not operate any programmes to promote diversity, equity and inclusion”.

The letter added: “If you do not agree to sign this document, we would appreciate it if you could provide detailed reasons, which we will forward to our legal teams.” In Stockholm, Valeskog said he had received the letter on Tuesday.

“We were really surprised, because diversity, equality and inclusion are values that we strive for and stand up for in Stockholm,” he said. “It’s very important for us.”

He presumed the letter was sent to the planning office because it was listed as a payee, given that it charges for building permits.

Still, it was the first time he had heard of one of these letters being directed at a municipality or foreign government. “It’s quite unique,” he said