Equity Union Advocates for Better Working Conditions at BAFTA Game Awards

The UK's Equity union made an appearance at the BAFTA Game Awards to push for enhanced pay and working conditions for performers in the video game industry. This move is part of the union's Game On campaign, which aims to elevate standards for video game performers. According to John Barclay, Equity's assistant general secretary for recorded media, the union is determined to address poor practices that have been overlooked by industry leaders. Despite the video game industry's substantial wealth, with the UK sector alone valued at over £7 billion, companies have not responded to Equity's calls for union-negotiated agreements to improve pay and working conditions. Barclay emphasized that performers' pay has not increased, and they lack adequate protection from issues like artificial intelligence and the misuse of non-disclosure agreements. The union is seeking safer working environments to prevent injuries and ensure proper recording practices. Equity expressed support for its US counterpart, SAG-AFTRA, which has been on strike against major video game companies since last year. The strike is part of a global effort to secure fair pay and protect performers' rights in the face of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.