RJC executive director steps down amid ongoing Russia conflict

The Accountable Jewelry Council’s (RJC) government director, Iris Van der Veken, has reportedly resigned from her function following the organisation’s managing of Alrosa’s membership during the Russia-Ukraine war.

In accordance to Rapaport News, Van der Veken handed in her resignation letter to the board of directors on Wednesday (30 March) as she was “dissatisfied” with the body’s failure to suspend Russian miner Alrosa.

Alrosa voluntarily stepped down from the situation of vice-chair of RJC, temporarily leaving the board of directors on 3 March.

The announcement comes as Van der Veken celebrated her 3-year anniversary at the RJC this 7 days.

It also comes immediately after Pandora announced its conclusion to leave the RJC more than its failure to suspend Russian companies’ membership.

Alexander Lacik, Pandora CEO, said: “We are shocked and saddened by the unprovoked assault on Ukraine, and our feelings go to the persons of Ukraine, who are victims of this senseless act of army aggression.

“The war calls for all businesses to act with the utmost accountability concerning any interactions or business dealings with Russia and Belarus. Pandora are unable to in great religion be a member of an association that does not share our values.”

Luxurious jewellery and check out house, Richemont, has also recently stepped down from the organisation, citing its dedication to human rights by means of the RJC’s code of practice and to offer chain thanks diligence.

In the assertion, the team claimed it does not would like to be members of an marketplace organisation that incorporates businesses that “contribute to funding conflicts and wars”.