Square Enix Unveils Robust Anti-Harassment Policy to Safeguard Employees and Partners
Square Enix has proactively introduced a comprehensive anti-harassment policy designed to protect its workforce and collaborators from unacceptable behavior. The policy clearly defines various forms of harassment, ranging from direct threats of violence and defamation to more subtle yet equally harmful actions.
The gaming industry, increasingly interconnected through online platforms, has unfortunately witnessed a rise in harassment. This isn't unique to Square Enix; high-profile incidents, such as death threats against actors and the cancellation of events due to threats, highlight the pervasive nature of this problem. Square Enix's new policy is a direct response to this concerning trend.
The policy, published on the Square Enix website, explicitly addresses harassment directed at all levels of the company, from support staff to executives. While encouraging feedback, Square Enix firmly states that harassment is unacceptable. The policy details specific behaviors categorized as harassment, including:
Square Enix's Defined Harassment:
- Acts of violence or violent threats
- Abusive language, intimidation, coercion, excessive pursuit, or unwarranted reprimands
- Defamation, slander, personal attacks (across various online and offline channels), and threats of business disruption
- Persistent, intrusive inquiries and repeated unwanted visits
- Unauthorized entry onto company property
- Unlawful restraint through phone calls or online interactions
- Discriminatory language or actions based on race, ethnicity, religion, origin, occupation, etc.
- Privacy violations such as unauthorized photography or video recording
- Sexual harassment and stalking
Unacceptable Demands:
The policy also addresses excessive or unreasonable demands, such as:
- Unjustified requests for product changes, exchanges, or monetary compensation
- Unreasonable demands for apologies, particularly those targeting specific employees
- Excessive requests for products or services beyond acceptable norms
- Unreasonable demands for employee punishment
This proactive measure underscores the necessity for such policies in the gaming industry. Past incidents, including threats against voice actors like Sena Bryer and previous threats targeting Square Enix staff (resulting in arrests), underscore the severity of the issue. The cancellation of past events due to similar threats further emphasizes the importance of protecting employees and partners from online abuse. Square Enix's policy demonstrates a commitment to creating a safer and more respectful environment for its team.
