Communications Workers Of America Closes Labor Neutrality Agreement With Microsoft
The union representing many workers in the games industry known as the Communications Workers of America recently closed a labor neutrality agreement with Microsoft ahead of the upcoming merger with Activision Blizzard. This agreement will help to ensure a smooth transition as ownership of the company changes hands.
The labor neutrality agreement will enter into effect 60 days after Microsoft officially takes control of Activision Blizzard. The measure will enable workers to freely and fairly make a choice about union representation.
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“This agreement provides a pathway for Activision Blizzard workers to exercise their democratic rights to organize and collectively bargain after the close of the Microsoft acquisition and establishes a high road framework for employers in the games industry,” Communications Workers of America President Chris Shelton explained. “Microsoft’s binding commitments will give employees a seat at the table and ensure that the acquisition of Activision Blizzard benefits the company's workers and the broader video game labor market.”
The comments from Shelton were echoed by those from President at Microsoft Brad Smith. “Earlier this month, we announced a set of principles that will guide our approach to labor organizations and the Activision Blizzard acquisition is our first opportunity to put these principles into practice,” the executive noted. Smith added that “we appreciate Communications Workers of America’s collaboration in reaching this agreement and we see today’s partnership as an avenue to innovate and grow together.”
The labor neutrality agreement is founded upon a “commitment to mutual respect” and
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