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 damaging actions. The company asserts its right to deny services and pursue legal action against individuals engaging in harassment.
The policy's implementation reflects a growing concern within the gaming industry regarding online harassment. High-profile incidents, such as death threats against actors and the cancellation of events due to threats of violence, highlight the need for such protective measures. Square Enix's proactive approach aims to prevent similar situations from affecting its employees and partners.
The policy, detailed on the Square Enix website, covers a broad spectrum of harassment, encompassing threats of violence, defamation, business obstruction, trespassing, and other disruptive actions. It meticulously outlines behaviors considered beyond the scope of acceptable customer feedback. Square Enix reserves the right to suspend services for offenders and, in cases involving malicious intent, will pursue legal avenues or involve law enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of its staff.
Key Provisions of the Square Enix Anti-Harassment Policy:
Harassment Includes:
- Acts of violence or violent threats
- Abusive language, intimidation, coercion, undue pressure, stalking
- Defamation, slander, personal attacks (across various online platforms)
- Persistent harassment, repeated unwanted contact
- Trespassing on company property
- Unlawful restraint through calls or online inquiries
- Discriminatory language or behavior
- Privacy violations (unauthorized photos or recordings)
- Sexual harassment
Undue Demands Include:
- Unreasonable product returns or monetary demands
- Excessive apology requests
- Requests for services exceeding acceptable norms
- Unreasonable demands for employee punishment
This decisive action underscores the necessity of such policies within the gaming industry. Recent incidents, including online abuse directed at voice actors like Sena Bryer, and past threats against Square Enix staff (resulting in arrests), underscore the seriousness of the issue. The company's commitment to employee safety is evident in its proactive approach to combating online harassment.
