In a significant development, approximately 300 quality assurance workers at ZeniMax, a gaming studio owned by Microsoft, are currently voting on whether to form a union. The workers, organizing with the Communications Workers of America (CWA) union, have until the end of December to cast their votes. Notably, Microsoft has expressed its willingness to recognize the union if the majority of workers vote in favor of it, as confirmed by the CWA.
The CWA commended Microsoft for adopting a neutral stance, allowing employees to independently decide whether they want to unionize. The CWA President, Christopher Shelton, praised Microsoft’s approach and contrasted it with other tech and video game giants that have attempted to undermine their employees ‘unionization efforts. The labor movement at ZeniMax comes amidst a broader awakening in the tech industry, with workers from major companies like Amazon, Apple, and Starbucks raising their voices for improved labor conditions.
What sets the Microsoft subsidiary apart is the company’s previous commitment to recognize workers ‘rights to organize. Earlier this year, Microsoft entered into a neutrality agreement with the CWA, which is also supporting the unionization endeavors of workers at Activision Blizzard, a gaming giant that Microsoft plans to acquire pending regulatory approval.
The gaming sector has witnessed a surge in worker-led initiatives demanding better workplace conditions, prompted by issues such as long working hours, pay disparities, job instability, and concerns over workplace culture at prominent gaming studios.
A Microsoft spokesperson emphasized the company’s neutral stance, stating that it exemplifies their labor principles and their commitment to enabling employees to freely and fairly choose their workplace representation.
Joe Slack, an associate quality assurance tester and member of the ZeniMax union organizing committee, clarified that the workers’ intention is not to be adversarial towards the company. Instead, the unionization effort primarily aims to provide workers with a voice and involvement in decisions that affect them.
Slack expressed satisfaction with Microsoft’s accommodating approach throughout the process, highlighting the company’s recognition of workers ‘rights. He also emphasized that the union and management need not be in an adversarial relationship and hopes to improve the well-being of all involved.
Written by:
Dana Sterling-Editor
