The Independent Workers of Great Britain (IWGB), representing independent workers in the UK, has formally filed a lawsuit against renowned game developer Rockstar Games, accusing the company of "union busting." The controversy stems from Rockstar Games' dismissal last month of dozens of employees who were attempting to form a union.
The union argues that the dismissal constitutes "victimization" and that negotiations were rejected.
In its statement, IWGB indicated that the union had repeatedly attempted to meet with Rockstar Games to resolve the dispute through negotiations, but the studio refused, leading to their decision to resort to legal action. IWGB stated, "We have filed a formal legal claim against Rockstar on behalf of the claimants."
The union believes these dismissals "constitute victimization and collective dismissal in connection with union activities." Reports indicate that all employees dismissed by Rockstar Games were members of the IWGB (Infinity Ward) game workers' union's Discord server.
IWGB Chairman Alex Marshall emphasized that the union will mobilize workers and legal experts to conduct a comprehensive defense. He warned, "Employers like Rockstar Games had better understand that union private spaces such as Discord servers are protected, and that company contract terms cannot supersede UK law." Marshall added that the union will not be intimidated.
Rockstar Games: Employee dismissed for "gross misconduct" and leaking confidential information.
In response to the allegations, Rockstar Games maintains that the dismissal of the 30-plus employees was based on "gross misconduct" and for no other reason. The company alleges that these employees were involved in "distributing and discussing confidential information on public forums."
It's worth noting that Rockstar Games just announced last week that it would delay the release of its flagship title, Grand Theft Auto VI, by another six months.
Just one step away from legal recognition, the organization's core members have been purged?
According to reports, a group called "Rockstar Games Workers' Union" has actually recruited more than 10% of Rockstar Games' UK employees. This figure is crucial because it is one of the thresholds for applying for UK statutory recognition; if approved, the government will be able to force Rockstar Games to recognize the union.
The report indicates that the union was scheduled to be officially announced in a few weeks, but prior to that, Rockstar reportedly dismissed most of the organizing committee members.
