Square Enix Unveils Robust Anti-Harassment Policy to Protect Employees and Partners
Square Enix has proactively introduced a comprehensive anti-harassment policy designed to safeguard its employees and collaborators. This policy explicitly defines various forms of harassment, ranging from direct threats of violence to online defamation. The company asserts its right to deny services and pursue legal action against individuals engaging in such behavior.
The policy's implementation underscores the increasing prevalence of online harassment within the gaming industry. High-profile incidents, such as death threats against actors and the cancellation of events due to threats of violence, highlight the urgent need for such protective measures. Square Enix's proactive stance aims to prevent similar situations impacting its workforce.
The detailed policy, available on the Square Enix website, covers a broad spectrum of harassment, encompassing threats, intimidation, defamation (including online comments and posts), stalking, and discriminatory conduct. It clearly distinguishes between acceptable feedback and unacceptable harassment.
Square Enix's response to harassment includes service denial and, in cases of malicious intent, legal action or involvement of law enforcement. This firm stance reflects a commitment to employee safety and well-being.
Key Elements of the Square Enix Anti-Harassment Policy:
Harassment includes:
- Acts of violence or violent threats
- Abusive language, intimidation, coercion
- Defamation, personal attacks (online or offline)
- Persistent inquiries, repeated unwanted contact
- Trespassing
- Unlawful restraint
- Discriminatory behavior based on race, religion, etc.
- Privacy infringement (unauthorized photos/videos)
- Sexual harassment, stalking
Undue Demands include:
- Unreasonable product exchanges or monetary demands
- Unreasonable apology requests
- Excessive service requests
- Excessive demands for employee punishment
This policy is a necessary response to the escalating issue of online harassment targeting game developers. Recent examples, such as the transphobic attacks against a Final Fantasy XIV voice actor, and past death threats against Square Enix staff, underscore the gravity of the situation and the importance of proactive measures to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all. The company's commitment to protecting its employees through this policy is a significant step in addressing this widespread problem.
