Industry rallies in support of Ukraine relief efforts

Earlier this week, the Gaming Industry for Ukraine initiative was launched, with the aim of raising £250,000 for people displaced by the war in Ukraine. All proceeds from the fundraiser will be donated to Choose Love’s Ukraine Crisis Fundraiser.

At the time of writing, the fundraiser has raised more than £60,000.

In addition, operators LeoVegas and ATG have both made large donations to the Red Cross. ATG has donated SEK2m to the charity, with chief corporate communications officer Patrik Brissman adding that the business was looking into ways to allow customers to contribute as well.

LeoVegas, meanwhile, donated SEK500,000. “The situation is clearly heartbreaking and saddening, and there is a strong urge from people across our offices to do whatever they can to help,” LeoVegas chief executive Gustaf Hagman said.

“This is why LeoVegas Group has decided to donate SEK500,000 to the Red Cross in support of their essential, lifesaving work in the region. The Red Cross is present on the ground – in the conflict zone and in neighbouring countries – with the top priority of saving lives.”

Meanwhile, with the UK government announcing sanctions against Russia and Belarus as a result of the invasion, ICE London organiser Clarion Gaming has announced that Russian and Belarusian businesses will not be permitted to participate at its events or via its digital channels.

“Given the current situation in Ukraine, we have taken the decision to suspend Russian and Belarusian state entities, companies, and their representatives from participating within Clarion Gaming’s events and digital products including the forthcoming 2022 edition of ICE and iGB Affiliate in London,” the business said.

“Our thoughts are with all those being affected by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.”