KYIV, UKRAINE — WPP stands with Ukraine and the international community in condemning the Russian invasion, which has created a humanitarian crisis in the heart of Europe. The Board of WPP has concluded that WPP’s ongoing presence in Russia would be inconsistent with their values as a company, and therefore discontinuing operations in the country.
WPP has nearly 1,400 people in Russia who have been dedicated and valued members of the organization, and the company thanks them for their commitment to the company and clients. WPP deeply regrets the impact of this decision on their Russian colleagues. They will provide support to them and work closely with clients and partners as they discontinue the activities in the country.
The company’s 200 people in Ukraine have shown extraordinary resilience and bravery in the face of the horrific attack on their country, and WPP has been inspired by their example and the outpouring of support from their colleagues in the region and worldwide. WPP is in constant contact with their leaders in Ukraine to provide financial and other forms of practical assistance for their employees.
WPP has partnered with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to run an emergency fundraising appeal to help people forced to flee their homes in search of safety in other parts of Ukraine or neighboring countries. WPP is also match-funding all donations by their employees.