Communication Workers Association
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EU Commission approves $55bn EA buyout, says it "would not raise competition concerns"
The European Commission has approved the $55 billion acquisition of Electronic Arts by a consortium led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, stating it would not raise competition concerns. The deal, which includes Silver Lake and Affinity Partners, was reviewed under the EU Merger Regulation and found to have a limited impact on the markets where the companies are active. This approval follows concerns raised by US lawmakers and labor unions regarding potential labor market impacts and foreign investment.
Union accuses Microsoft of unlawfully laying off staff in legal action
The Communication Workers of America (CWA) union has filed an unfair labor practice complaint against Microsoft, alleging unlawful layoffs and bad-faith bargaining. CWA Canada has also taken legal action regarding employee dismissals at Bethesda Game Studios Montreal. Microsoft stated they are committed to the bargaining process and supporting affected employees.
"Workers deserve protection, not to be treated like disposable line items" – Hundreds of union members affected by Xbox layoffs
Hundreds of union members from the Communication Workers of America were impacted by recent layoffs at Xbox, which saw 3,200 positions eliminated and five studios divested. The CWA is pursuing legal and contractual actions to protect affected workers, including bargaining for severance and recall rights. Union leaders criticized Microsoft's treatment of employees and expressed disappointment with slow progress on contract negotiations, while Xbox leadership cited strategic overextension as a reason for the cuts.
Union launches hardship fund for laid off developers
The United Videogame Workers union has launched a hardship fund to assist game developers in the US and Canada affected by recent layoffs. The fund, supported by membership fees and a forthcoming Itch.io charity bundle, offers grants of up to $5,000 for essential living and work-related expenses. This initiative aims to provide immediate financial relief to industry professionals facing job insecurity.
United Wizards of the Coast Union Has Officially Been Formed
Developers of Magic: The Gathering Arena have officially formed the United Wizards of the Coast union, affiliated with the Communication Workers Association. The union, established with a majority vote from 79 out of 102 employees, aims to negotiate collective bargaining agreements covering layoff protections, remote work, workload sustainability, and AI tool guidelines. Wizards of the Coast has stated they will engage in good faith negotiations.
