Cannes Lions bans Russian delegates and award entries
Cannes Lions will ban all award entries and delegates from Russian organizations to the festival following president Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine.
Cannes Lions bans Russian attendees and award entries following the country’s invasion of Ukraine
In a statement, the festival’s owner Ascential said: “Despite our desire to celebrate creativity from wherever it comes, we have made the decision not to accept submissions or delegations from Russian organizations into Cannes Lions or its associated awards programs.”
The week-long event attracts thousands of brands, agencies, marketers and creatives from around the world. Its in-person return to the south of France in June has been highly anticipated following a two-year break as a result of the pandemic.
A ticket ranges from €3,675 for basic entry for the week to €9,195 for a platinum pass. An award entry can cost anything from €610 to €2,325 depending on the category.
Cannes organisers said it will welcome all Ukrainian delegates free of charge and honor full refunds on awards submissions for Ukraine agencies if requested.
It will also make a “significant donation” to the charities working in the region.
“Our thoughts go out to the people of Ukraine and other affected members of the community at this extremely difficult time,” it added.