Evolution Faces Strike Action in Georgia Over Unsanitary Workplace Conditions

Evolution, a leading igaming provider, is currently facing a significant labor strike in Georgia. Approximately 5,000 employees are planning to strike on July 12th, citing unsanitary workplace conditions, labor rights violations, and inadequate salaries at Evolution’s live casino studio in Tbilisi.

Strike Details

Georgian media reports that “at least 5,000” employees from Evolution Georgia are preparing to go on strike. The employees demand better working conditions at the Tbilisi live gaming location.

Allegations Against Evolution

The company has been accused of maintaining unsafe and unsanitary workplace conditions. Employees have also reported harassment by managers and low pay. Mautskebeli, a Georgian trade union news source, published screenshots and communications highlighting sexist, racist, and discriminatory remarks made by Evolution management.

In addition to the screenshots, footage was released showing the poor working and sanitary conditions faced by janitors at Evolution.

Evolution’s Response

Evolution responded to the allegations and the proposed strike with a statement on Facebook. The company condemned the unacceptable behavior of some employees at the Tbilisi studio and announced an investigation into the issues. Evolution emphasized its commitment to mutual respect and trust within the workplace, promising stringent action against any unacceptable behavior.

Leadership and Historical Context

Giorgi Diasamidze, Chair of the LABOR union, will lead the strike action. LABOR and Evolution Georgia employees have been negotiating for better rights for two years without reaching an agreement. This is not the first time Evolution Georgia has faced such challenges. In March 2020, the company laid off 1,300 employees due to economic challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. This led to a lawsuit filed by the Social Justice Centre on behalf of 14 terminated employees.

Conclusion

The upcoming strike at Evolution’s Tbilisi studio highlights ongoing labor disputes and concerns over workplace conditions. As Evolution navigates these challenges, the outcome of the strike and the company’s response will be closely watched by the igaming industry and labor rights advocates.