The Board of Directors of egta, the global trade body for TV and radio sales houses, has immediately suspended its relationship with all Russian members of the association — EMG (Europa Media Group), Everest Sales, Gazprom-Media, Media-1, NRA (National Advertising Alliance) and Russian Media Group.
In a media statement, egta says, “These past few days, we have witnessed Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing atrocities upon the Ukrainian people. As an association built on cooperation across borders, we are deeply concerned by this tragic situation and strongly condemn Russia’s overt attack upon democracy and peace in Europe.
“As such, we stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and with all egta colleagues in the media and advertising industry in Ukraine and Russia, who are unwillingly drawn into an unnecessary conflict.
“However, as a strong signal to its leadership and as part of the international effort to isolate Russia from the international community, we are suspending services to all Russian member sales houses. The suspension will remain in effect until further decision by the association’s next General Assembly.
“Within the egta membership, various humanitarian actions and fundraisers have already been launched. egta will help coordinate actions wherever possible. Additionally, the association will donate 100,000 euros to both Ukrainian media and humanitarian institutions and invites other associations across Europe to consider similar measures.
“We remain in close contact with our Ukrainian colleagues in this dark hour and will continue discussions with the membership – calling and hoping for a swift end to the hostilities and a return to respect for democracy.”