Activision Blizzard has decided to settle a harassment lawsuit by a US government agency. The gaming company said it would pay USD 18 million to settle the lawsuit. The firm said that it has reached a settlement agreement with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The settlement has been reached in a matter where the agency had filed a complaint. The gaming company has agreed to pay USD 18 million as part of the agreement, which is subject to approval by the court. The company said that the fund would compensate and make amends to eligible claimants. The company said that any difference in the remaining amount would be used to create diversity and inclusion initiatives.
The funds can also be used to donate to charities that are working towards addressing issues related to harassment, gender equality, and women of the video gaming industry. Commenting on the decision to settle the lawsuit, Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick said that he is thankful to those women employees that came forward and raise the issue. “There is no place for discrimination, unequal treatment, or harassment of any women. I once again reiterate my commitment towards making this company one of the best places to work where every employee will get respect,” Kotick said in a statement.
The EEOC had filed a complaint against the company in which it accused the firm of subjecting females to sexual harassment. The complaint also said that the female employees were paid less than their male counterparts. Moreover, the company discriminated against employees due to pregnancy, the complaint said. Kotick has assured that the company would continue to be ‘vigilant’ in stopping cases of discrimination and harassment. “We are thankful to the agency for its constructive engagement. We will work together to eliminate any kind of discrimination.” It must be noted that Activision Blizzard has faced lawsuits by several agencies this year. The lawsuit by EEOC was one of them.
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