CWA, Microsoft Labor Neutrality Agreement

PRESS RELEASE: Ground-breaking agreement will enable a new approach to corporate-union engagement after Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard closes

Monday, June 13, 2022
WASHINGTON and REDMOND, Wash – June 13, 2022 – Today the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and Microsoft announced they have entered into a ground-breaking labor neutrality agreement. The agreement will apply at Activision Blizzard beginning 60 days after Microsoft’s acquisition closes, and it reflects a fundamental belief by both organizations that enabling workers to freely and fairly make a choice about union representation will benefit Microsoft and its employees, and create opportunities for innovation in the gaming sector.

“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,” said CWA President Chris Shelton. “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 agreement addresses CWA’s previous concerns regarding the acquisition, and, as a result, we support its approval and look forward to working collaboratively with Microsoft after this deal closes.” https://cwa-union.org/news/releases/cwa-microsoft-announce-labor-neutrality-agreement