Staff at ZeniMax Media have once again voiced their frustrations regarding the ongoing delays in negotiations with Microsoft. In a recent post on the Communications Workers of America (CWA) website, employees highlighted a stark contrast between Microsoft’s public image and their lived experiences behind closed doors. The ZeniMax Workers United bargaining unit, established in early 2023 by quality assurance personnel, claims that nearly two years later, they still lack a union contract with Microsoft.
This situation unfolds almost three years after Microsoft entered into a labor neutrality agreement with the CWA, a move seemingly aimed at garnering support for its acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Senior QA tester Autumn Mitchell articulated the sentiments of her colleagues, stating, “It’s become increasingly clear that although Microsoft tries to position itself as a good-faith employer, there’s another story being told behind the scenes at the bargaining table. We are frustrated. Our union will continue fighting until we secure a first contract, and we’re prepared to do whatever it takes—even if that means withholding our labor.”
Calls for Prioritization in Negotiations
Adding to the chorus of discontent, CWA chief of staff Sylvia J. Ramos remarked, “We are approaching the three-year anniversary of CWA’s groundbreaking labor neutrality agreement with Microsoft. Thousands of workers have freely and fairly chosen union representation with CWA under the agreement. It’s time for Microsoft’s negotiators to make bargaining contracts with these workers a priority so that together we can fully realize the promise of our partnership.”
In response to these concerns, a Microsoft representative conveyed the company’s commitment to reaching a resolution. “We respect the team’s right to express their viewpoints and are deeply committed to securing a fair and equitable resolution that acknowledges the teams’ contributions,” the spokesperson stated to Game Developer.
