Casey Mitchell
CD Projekt Workers Form Union to Improve Industry Conditions
Staff at Cyberpunk 2077 studio CD Projekt are coming together to form a union called the Polish Gamedev Workers Union (PGWA). The goal of this union is to represent and provide a voice for all Polish game developers while striving to improve industry conditions. This move comes in the wake of layoffs that affected around 9% of CD Projekt Red, the development studio behind Cyberpunk 2077, earlier this year.
Union Formation in Response to Layoffs
The formation of the PGWA was prompted by the layoffs that occurred within CD Projekt Red. Approximately 100 employees were let go, causing significant stress and insecurity among the remaining staff. The creation of the union aims to address these concerns and provide more security, transparency, better protection, and a stronger voice for game developers in times of crisis.
Creating a Stable, Fair, Diverse, and Healthy Environment
The PGWA’s primary objective is to foster a stable, fair, diverse, and healthy environment for game development in Poland. By uniting all Polish game developers, the union aims to create positive change within the industry. It seeks to ensure that developers have the necessary support and resources to thrive in their work.
Access to Legal Support and Experience
The PGWA is part of the nationwide Polish Trade Union Workers Initiative, which provides game developers with access to legal support, experience, and a large network. This affiliation allows the union to operate independently within the videogame industry while benefiting from the collective strength and resources of the larger trade union.
Reaching Out to CD Projekt Board
The PGWA is currently in its trial period and not yet legally established. However, it is actively seeking more members and has reached out to the CD Projekt board to initiate a dialogue. The union aims to collaborate with the company to address the specific needs and concerns of CD Projekt workers.
Expanding Benefits to Non-CD Projekt Workers
While the PGWA is open to all Polish game developers, it clarifies that CD Projekt workplace-specific benefits won’t apply to non-CD Projekt workers until a large enough group is gathered to establish a commission in their workplace as well. This ensures that the union can effectively represent and negotiate for the interests of all its members.
CD Projekt Red Layoffs and Future Plans
The CD Projekt Red layoffs, which prompted the formation of the PGWA, were announced by CD Projekt CEO Adam Kiciński. He acknowledged that the company was overstaffed and that around 100 workers would be gradually let go, with the process expected to continue until Q1 2024. Kiciński emphasized the company’s commitment to transparency and offered comprehensive severance packages to the affected employees.
As the PGWA continues to gather members and establish itself, it remains dedicated to improving the conditions and well-being of game developers in Poland. The union’s formation represents a significant step towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment within the gaming industry.
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