ZeniMax is a Microsoft-owned video game developer and publisher. Video game testers have just been approved to form their first union. The video game industry has reached a major milestone, since unionization of game testers and workers was historically met with resistance by game companies.

Microsoft has received praise from ZeniMax for its approval, because the company did not engage in union-busting, or actions taken by employers to prevent their workers from joining or forming a union. Union-busting tactics can include firing or threatening employees who support unions. They may also make it difficult for workers to find information about unions or engage in propaganda campaigns that discourage employees from joining a union.

It is widely believed that union busting can be harmful to the rights and wellbeing of workers. Employees can use unions to bargain collectively for better wages, working conditions and benefits. Employees can also use unions to speak out for their rights or address any concerns they have with their employers. Employers who engage in union-busting are essentially trying to silence their employees’ voices and prevent them from advocating their own interests.

Union busting is harmful to both the employees and the society at large for several reasons. It undermines workers’ rights to organize and represent their own interests. Employers should respect the rights of employees to join and form unions.

Second, a union-busting policy can result in poorer conditions of work and lower wages. Employees may be more susceptible to mistreatment and exploitation by employers without the protection of a union. Unions help ensure that workers receive a fair wage and are treated fairly.

Third, the economic impact of union-busting is negative. Unions help reduce income inequality, and can improve the standard-of-living for all workers. If unions are suppressed or weakened, this can result in a reduction in the well-being of workers and consumer spending. This can negatively impact the economy.

ZeniMax’s union approval is a good thing for the video games industry as well as workers rights. Microsoft’s refusal to break up unions is commendable. Other companies should emulate this decision by respecting their employees’ rights to organize and advocate their own interests.