Capgemini to Sell US Unit Amid Controversy Over ICE Services
Capgemini, the French IT giant, has made headlines by announcing the sale of its US subsidiary linked to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. This decision follows intense scrutiny over ICE’s controversial practices. The subsidiary, known as Capgemini Government Solutions, was involved in contracts to monitor foreign nationals within the United States.
Controversial Contract with ICE
The contract, which came to light through the NGO Observatoire des Multinationales, raised ethical concerns regarding the methods employed by ICE. Capgemini stressed that U.S. legal restrictions hindered the company’s ability to effectively oversee operations within this subsidiary.
Financial Impact
According to Capgemini, this subsidiary contributes only 0.4% to the company’s projected global sales for 2025, and less than 2% to its sales in the U.S.
- Estimated contribution of subsidiary to global sales: 0.4% for 2025
- U.S. sales contribution: less than 2%
Capgemini has indicated that the process to divest this entity will begin immediately.
Backlash and Protests
Capgemini’s involvement with ICE has prompted protests in Europe, with members of the French Parliament and Finance Minister Roland Lescure calling for transparency. The CGT Capgemini union has initiated an online petition urging the company to terminate its engagement with the U.S. government.
Concerns Over ICE Activities
The union attributes ICE’s actions to the tracking, arrest, kidnapping, and deportation of countless individuals. Recent ICE operations in Minneapolis have reportedly led to the tragic deaths of two American citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good.
International Criticism
Anti-ICE protests have spread across Europe, especially in France and Italy. The announcement of the presence of U.S. federal agents at the upcoming Winter Olympics has sparked further criticism, despite their stated advisory role.
The situation remains fluid as Capgemini navigates growing public and political pressure surrounding its subsidiary’s activities in the U.S.
