UMG was awarded Volodymyr Zelensky’s Ukraine Peace Prize in recognition of its support for humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine and music’s overall role in promoting peace—a first for any music company.

The award was presented by Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Olha Stefanishyna to UMG Chairman & CEO of Central Europe and Deutsche Grammophon Frank Briegmann during a ceremony held at Universal Music Belgium’s headquarters in Brussels.

"Ukraine is grateful to Universal Music for its ongoing support," said Stefanishyna. "The company was one of the first to support Ukraine and join the sanctions against Russia. UMG is the first music company in the world to receive such an award. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Universal Music has proven that it is a true friends to Ukraine and that the entertainment-and-culture sphere shouldn’t stand aside during war.”

In accepting the honor, Briegmann noted, “Throughout history, music has served as a beacon of inspiration and hope and healing—and help bringing peace to those affected by violence. The Russian military invasion in Ukraine affects millions with urgent humanitarian needs—from food and water to shelter and clothing. Universal Music and our employees and artists are proud to support groups on the ground providing life-saving, humanitarian assistance to those most vulnerable.”

Among UMG's many contributions to Ukraine was its support of Global Citizen's “Stand Up for Ukraine” social-media rally in April. Helmed by UMG EVP Michele Anthony, it united thousands of global citizens, including UMG artists, and raised more than $10b for Ukraine refugee relief through the EU's pledging summit.

The Berlin charity concert "Sound of Peace" also collected million of Euros, with performances by such UMG artists as Sarah Connor, Rea Garvey and David Garrett.

UMG was involved in many other projects around the world this year, including on the Ukrainian border, with the goal of lending financial support to organizations providing humanitarian relief.