Survey: German companies stick to DEI initiatives despite US pressure

German companies are maintaining their diversity initiatives despite US cutbacks under President Donald Trump, a survey has revealed.

The Berlin-based Diversity Charter initiative told dpa in comments released on Saturday that 90% of the 100 major organizations it surveyed have not scrapped their diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) programmes.

Only two of the firms - all of which have more than 1,000 employees - said they have rolled back some measures, primarily in relation to activities in the United States.

DEI initiatives have come under massive pressure in the US since Trump's return to the White House earlier this year.

Many businesses have since scaled back their diversity programmes, including Google and Meta.

The Diversity Charter is Germany's largest employer initiative for
promoting diversity in the world of work. Over 6,000 companies and
institutions have already signed the charter.

The association's managing director, Cawa Younosi, said that German companies have been affected by developments in the United States, with some reviewing their measures internally while others adapt their language.

"We are not seeing a wave of retreat - but a growing uncertainty in communication," said Younosi.

Many businesses are sure of their stance, said a spokesman for the organization, but unclear as to how to communicate their positions.

"Diversity needs guidance right now," said Younosi.

The flash survey was carried out in the second week of April.