Microsoft and unions

Microsoft recognizes 10 video game unions^[α] in the United States, representing 2,600 video game workers. Microsoft like other tech companies, has historically resisted unions and relied on temporary workers with lower pay and job security than regular employees. This shift began in 2015 and accelerated in 2022 when Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard. To expedite the approval process, Microsoft signed a labor neutrality agreement with Communications Workers of America. This agreement guarantees that Microsoft will not interfere with or oppose union organizing efforts. It applies to both of its video game subsidiaries, Activision Blizzard and ZeniMax Media. Other unionization efforts at TaxSaver Software and Lionbridge have been unsuccessful.

Microsoft employees in the United States have been vocal in their opposition to military and ICE government contracts with Microsoft. Microsoft workers also showed transnational support for Chinese tech worker protesting the 996.icu overtime culture.

Around the world, Microsoft and its subsidiaries have formed unions in Canada, Poland, Romania, South Korea and Sweden and formed works councils in Germany. Bethesda Game Studios employees unionized in Canada, and King video game developers in Sweden voted to form a "union club".
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