In brief
In a significant move, Capgemini has announced plans to divest its US subsidiary that has been under fire for its association with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. This decision follows public outrage over the agency's controversial practices, highlighted by recent incidents involving the fatal shootings of US citizens. The French tech giant stated it could not maintain adequate oversight of the subsidiary's operations, prompting immediate actions towards divestiture as it aims to align more closely with its corporate principles amidst increasing scrutiny from lawmakers and the public.
French technology giant Capgemini has announced it will sell its US subsidiary after its work locating individuals for the immigration enforcement agency ICE sparked outrage. Capgemini has come under pressure from French lawmakers over a contract its subsidiary signed with ICE, amid international scrutiny regarding the agency's operational methods, especially highlighted by incidents in Minnesota.
The recent fatal shootings of US citizens Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of Border Patrol agents have ignited protests across the country, leading to intensified criticism of ICE.
Capgemini Government Solutions has been under contract since December 18, providing 'skip tracing services for enforcement and removal operations,' which involves locating individuals whose whereabouts are unknown. Sources indicate that the subsidiary stands to receive more than $4.8 million for its ongoing contract with ICE, scheduled to last until March 15.
A statement from Capgemini explained that the company was unable to exercise adequate control over certain aspects of the subsidiary's operations, leading to the decision to initiate the divestiture process immediately. In light of growing scrutiny over ICE practices, following the controversial shootings, the company is responding to public concern.
Criticism of ICE has escalated recently, particularly since the shooting of 37-year-old Pretti, marking the second fatal shooting of a US citizen by immigration agents amid a broader push for increased deportations led by previous administration policies. The situation has drawn the ire of French lawmakers, including Finance Minister Roland Lescure, pressing the company for transparency regarding its contracts with ICE.
Left-wing opposition MP Hadrien Clouet expressed a strong stance against French companies collaborating with ICE, prompting discussions on possible sanctions against such firms. As Capgemini embarks on the divestiture, it remains one of the leading IT services and consulting firms globally, employing over 340,000 staff and valued at €22 billion.
