Microsoft Won’t Oppose Unionization at Activision Blizzard

Microsoft will not oppose Activision Blizzard acknowledging the efforts of its staff to unionize. As Axios reports, Microsoft responded to a letter from Activision staff at the Call of Duty studio Raven Software, who are seeking to unionize. Back in January, QA testers at the studio declared their intention to unionize. Despite Activision Blizzard failing to meet the deadline to recognize their efforts, their bid persists. Following Microsoft’s announcement of its $69 billion takeover of the publisher, the staff sent a letter to CEO Satya Nadella, requesting information on the company’s role in approving or denying unionization efforts. Additionally, the letter asks: “[W]hat conditions, if any, will Microsoft impose on the collective bargaining process?” A Microsoft spokesperson told Axios: “If Activision Blizzard recognizes a union, Microsoft will not stand in the way. Microsoft respects the right of Activision Blizzard employees to choose whether to be represented by a labor organization, and we will honor those decisions.” The Washington Post also obtained the letter, reporting that it condemns the involvement of the law firm Reed Smith, which published anti-union material on its website. “I hope that you will agree that this demeaning and insulting approach to employees who are striving to improve their workplace should not be tolerated,” the letter reads. The Game Workers Alliance established by the staff at Raven Software has yet to publicly respond to Microsoft’s comments, although earlier this month it reaffirmed its intention to unionize. “With a protected voice on the job, we will force management to listen and implement changes that we know will not only benefit Raven QA, but will also send a message throughout the industry,” reads a tweet. “That is why we will not cease organizing.” We, the workers, will prevail. #WeAreRaven #WeAreGWA – Game Workers Alliance #WeAreGWA (@WeAreGWA) March 1, 2022. The ABetterABK workers alliance is also continuing its fight for unionization. “There’s power in numbers! A big thank you to everyone who visited @CODE_CWA’s booth at #GDC22 to discuss unionizing in your workplace! pic.twitter.com/3HTcIn35mo” – ABetterABK ABK Workers Alliance (@ABetterABK) March 24, 2022. A new lawsuit has also been lodged against Activision Blizzard in the wake of fresh accusations of sexual harassment and discrimination.