Barrick Gold’s CEO says the gold miner will continue to host virtual-only annual general meetings despite calls for public companies to return to an in-person format.

After Barrick hosted its latest virtual-only AGM on Tuesday, CEO Mark Bristow said he “can’t see any reason” to return to in-person sessions. Back when the company was holding in-person annual meetings, they were routinely attended by activists and non-governmental organizations, such as MiningWatch Canada, that have accused Barrick of human rights abuses in Africa.