The US Embassy in Copenhagen has retracted its demand that the city comply with Trump-era anti-discrimination policies in order to secure parking permits. The initial request sparked outrage among local officials, who viewed it as an unwarranted intrusion into Copenhagen’s equality policies.

The embassy initially required the Technical and Environmental Administration of Copenhagen to confirm its compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws, specifically those related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This demand was made as a condition for purchasing three business parking permits for embassy vehicles.

Copenhagen’s officials voiced strong opposition to the embassy’s demand. They saw it as an unacceptable attempt to influence the city’s policies on equality. One mayor even compared the demand unfavorably to the practices of the Russian embassy.

Following the backlash, the US Embassy reversed its position. In a recent email to the municipality, the embassy stated that while it is generally obligated to enforce the Trump administration’s requirements, the parking spaces are considered a “critical service” and therefore do not necessitate municipal compliance with the anti-discrimination policies.

The embassy confirmed that it no longer requires a signature from the municipality attesting to compliance with the anti-discrimination laws. They clarified that foreign entities operating outside the United States are generally not required to comply with federal anti-discrimination laws, unless controlled by an American employer or employing American citizens.