Analysis How the accountancy profession has reacted to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

Standing with the people of Ukraine

How has the accountancy world reacted to the invasion of Ukraine? Here are just some of the statements

ICAEW CEO Michael Izza: “The UN Secretary General has urged the president of #Russia to halt his invasion of #Ukraine and prevent ‘what could be the worst war since the start of the century’. The UK government, standing alongside the US and EU, has announced a further package of sanctions aimed at demonstrating to the Russian elite the political and financial costs of their aggression. ICAEW is confident that #charteredaccountants, whether in practice or in business, will be ready and willing to play the fullest possible role in making these measures effective, and in helping companies across the economy cope with the disruption they will bring.” CIMA: “The institute wholeheartedly stands with the people of Ukraine and supports governments in implementing economic and trade sanctions and other measures taken in response to the Russian military invasion. Representing our 696,000 members, students, and engaged accounting and finance professionals from 192 territories and countries around the world, we strongly condemn the actions taken by the Russian government. We are saddened by the appalling impact this is having on people’s lives and have put in place measures to support our members, students, and staff directly impacted. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates.” BDO Global: “BDO deplores the violation of international law and military aggression in all its forms. We stand with the Ukrainian people and we wish for peace to be restored. Since the eruption of the conflict, our absolute priority has been – and remains – the safety and wellbeing of our BDO colleagues and their families on the ground. BDO’s leadership teams at global and at firm level have been working around the clock to provide support to our BDO people and to the relief effort overall. This includes assisting the evacuation process and ongoing practical requirements, such as transportation, relocation and accommodation, as well as providing immediate financial assistance. We are in awe of the bravery and resilience shown by our colleagues in the region and we are extremely grateful for the way BDO has come together globally to support them.” KPMG: “We condemn the Russian government’s military invasion of Ukraine in violation of international law. KPMG colleagues and firms across the world are united in our support for the people of Ukraine and all of those across the region who have been affected by this senseless military action. Driven by our values, KPMG is working closely with our colleagues in Ukraine and Eastern Europe to do everything we can to help people and communities in need. KPMG around the world is also fully adhering to the sanctions introduced by various governments, which hopefully will contribute to bringing an end to this crisis.” • Check out CCAB’s statement on the war on page 28