Union Accuses Evolution Georgia of Using Pressure Tactics

The longest labor strike in Georgia’s history takes a dramatic turn with allegations against Evolution Georgia.
The Georgian trade union claims the company, with state backing, is using intimidation to break the strike.
Despite threats and layoffs, workers remain steadfast in their demands for better pay and working conditions.
Explore the ongoing struggle for labor rights and the union’s fight for justice and dignity.

Historic Labor Strike in Georgia: Union Accuses Evolution of Pressure Tactics and Disinformation

Key Points

1. Georgian trade union accuses Evolution Georgia of using disinformation and intimidation to end the strike.
2. The strike, lasting over four months, demands better pay and working conditions for Evolution employees.
3. The union’s resilience has garnered international attention, winning the Freedom from Fear Award.

The ongoing strike at Evolution Georgia, now over four and a half months old, has reached a boiling point. Georgian trade union Labor has accused Evolution, a prominent gaming and technology company, of collaborating with state security forces to pressure workers into ending their strike.

In an “emergency announcement,” the union warned of disinformation campaigns and potential provocations, claiming these efforts aim to undermine the unity of the strikers. The union also raised concerns about punitive measures targeting strike organizers, calling for both domestic and international observers to monitor the situation closely.

Background: A Historic Labor Strike

The strike, which began on July 12, 2024, represents the longest labor action in Georgia’s history. At its core are demands for improved working conditions and fairer wages, which arose after negotiations between the trade union and Evolution broke down.

The situation escalated as some employees resorted to hunger strikes to amplify their demands. Evolution responded by laying off 1,000 workers, citing operational disruptions and diminished customer confidence caused by the strike.

By September, both sides had reached a stalemate, with no compromise in sight. While the company claimed the strike involved a small fraction of its workforce, the trade union accused Evolution of downplaying the scale of the protests.

Union Accusations and Evolution’s Response

Labor’s accusations suggest a coordinated effort by Evolution, supported by state forces, to discredit the strike and divide strikers. The union has also alleged the use of violence, harassment, and disinformation to intimidate workers.

Evolution CEO Martin Carlesund addressed the strike publicly in October, accusing the union of spreading “disinformation and blunt lies” in the media. Carlesund emphasized that the company’s focus has shifted away from Georgia, with plans to expand recruitment in other regions and invest in new studio infrastructure worldwide.

“The situation in Georgia has stabilized, but we do not plan to grow our workforce there,” Carlesund stated.

Global Support and Recognition

Despite the challenges, the union has gained international recognition for its efforts. Earlier this month, it received the UNI Global Union’s Freedom from Fear Award, which honors workers who demonstrate exceptional courage in the face of intimidation and violence.

Labor Chair Giorgi Diasamidze, accepting the award online, stated:

“Despite Evolution’s power and influence, we stand united against injustice. Intimidation and lawsuits only make us stronger.”

UNI Global Union General Secretary Christy Hoffman echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the strike’s significance beyond monetary demands:

“This is about dignity, justice, and the fundamental values of our movement. We stand in solidarity until they win.”

Broader Implications

The Evolution Georgia strike highlights deeper issues in the gaming industry, particularly regarding worker rights and corporate accountability. It also underscores the challenges faced by unions in emerging markets, where labor regulations may lack robust enforcement.

This strike has become a flashpoint for broader discussions about fair pay, workplace dignity, and the ethical responsibilities of multinational corporations operating in developing countries.

The Evolution Georgia strike, rooted in demands for fairness and respect, continues to capture international attention. While the union faces significant challenges, including intimidation and layoffs, its resilience has inspired solidarity worldwide.

As Evolution shifts its focus to other markets, the strikers’ fight serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for labor rights. With international support growing, this strike could leave a lasting impact on both Georgia’s labor landscape and the global gaming industry.

The battle for dignity and justice is far from over. For now, the workers remain steadfast: “We are not afraid, and we are not backing down.”