European Commission Urged to Approve Microsoft's Acquisition of Activision

Chris Shelton, president of the Communications Workers of America, has written to the European Commission's executive vice president, Margrethe Vestager, advocating for the approval of Microsoft's proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Shelton believes this merger could have a positive impact on the labour market, particularly in light of the challenges workers at Activision Blizzard have faced in their efforts to unionise since 2021. The CWA has been supporting these workers and has previously filed complaints against Activision Blizzard for alleged union busting and unlawful surveillance of employees. Initially, the CWA had concerns about the potential for increased employer power over workers, but a labour neutrality agreement was reached with Microsoft in June 2022. This agreement would provide a safe path for Activision Blizzard's employees to unionise if the merger is approved. Shelton argues that Microsoft's commitment to labour neutrality will give employees a stronger voice and help balance power in the labour market. He urges the European Commission to consider the potential benefits of the merger for workers and the video game labour market, and to approve the acquisition.