Although no official announcement was made at the time of going to press, media reports said that the Swiss luxury giant Richemont had suspended its membership of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) over its handling of Russian memberships since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war. It is also widely reported that the RJC Executive Director Iris Van der Veken has resigned from her position due to differences over the same issue. Meanwhile, Pandora issued a statement noting that it is ending its 12-year membership with the RJC the following its failure to suspend Russian companies’ memberships and responsible business certifications and to urge its members to suspend business with Russia. Pandora had previously requested that RJC take such actions.
“We are shocked and saddened by the unprovoked attack on Ukraine, and our thoughts go to the people of Ukraine, who are victims of this senseless act of military aggression. The war requires all businesses to act with the utmost responsibility regarding any interactions or business dealings with Russia and Belarus. Pandora cannot in good faith be a member of an association that does not share our values,” said Pandora CEO Alexander Lacik.
On February 24th, Pandora suspended all business with Russia and Belarus. Pandora has also instructed all its suppliers and business partners that no raw materials, products or services supplied to Pandora can come directly or indirectly from Russia or Belarus.