Activision Blizzard is facing further legal action for its work practices. How Game developer according to reports, Activision Blizzard workers and the Communication Workers of America have filed a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board accusing the game developer of using coercion (such as threats) and interrogation. Although the presentation does not detail the behavior, the ABetterABK employee group claimed Activision Blizzard tried to intimidate staff who spoke of forced arbitration for disputes.
Sometimes companies include labor clauses that require arbitration rather than lawsuits. The approach tends to favor companies, as arbitrations are often faster than lawsuits, deny access to class action, and most importantly, keep matters private. Labor disputes are less likely to come to public view and bring about systemic change. Technology companies like Microsoft have ended arbitration for sexual harassment claims precisely to make sure these disputes are transparent and to prevent harassers from going out of control.
It is unclear how Activision Blizzard intends to respond. We asked the company about the complaint. The NLRB has not yet said whether it will take over the case.
The gaming giant has taken some action in response to California’s sexual harassment lawsuit, firing three top designers and a Blizzard president after being referenced in the case. However, so far he has been reluctant to discuss structural changes. The NLRB’s complaint may intensify pressure for reform and will certainly not help the image of Activision Blizzard.
If the NLRB decides in our favor, the ruling will be retroactive and we will set a precedent so that no U.S. worker can be intimidated if he talks about forced arbitration.
– ABetterABK (@ABetterABK) September 14, 2021
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