Ukrainian campaigners are urging decisive action from the Labour mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, calling for him to condemn the US company that owns Cadbury for its ongoing commercial activities in Russia. This call to action comes amid geopolitical tensions and questions of corporate responsibilities.
B4Ukraine activists have taken a strong stance by writing to Mayor Richard Parker. They are advocating for the condemnation of Mondelez International, the fast-moving consumer goods giant, due to its decision to continue selling products in Russia despite the country’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
Cadbury, originally based in Birmingham, comes into the spotlight due to its historical values of community, fairness, and pacifism, which campaigners argue are principles that must be defended today. Parker’s recent visit to the Cadbury factory in Bournville, Birmingham, underscores the local importance of this issue, although his discussions at the site remain undisclosed.
Earlier this year, in an interview with the Financial Times, Mondelez’s CEO Dirk Van de Put defended the company’s operations in Russia. He stated that investors showed no moral concern or shareholder pressure to exit the Russian market, sparking further controversy.
Mondelez, however, maintains that they condemned the aggression against Ukraine from the beginning of the conflict. They highlighted their efforts to support Ukrainian citizens and refugees through the Mondelez International Foundation, which has committed $15 million in aid. This includes cash and in-kind contributions, aiming to provide relief amid the geopolitical crisis.
This corporate stance comes as other companies, such as Unilever, have chosen to exit the Russian market. Unilever recently completed the sale of its Russian and Belarusian divisions to Arnest Group, marking a formal departure.
While Mondelez continues its business in Russia, Ukrainian campaigners believe that Mayor Parker holds a significant position to influence the company’s decisions. They emphasize the importance of upholding the values that shaped Cadbury, reflecting broader questions about ethical business practices during international conflicts.
The debate over Mondelez International’s presence in Russia highlights the complex intersection of business decisions and ethical considerations in a globalised economy. Campaigners are looking to leaders like Richard Parker to champion values of pacifism and fairness in corporate operations, urging closer scrutiny of international commerce amid ongoing conflicts.
