Activision user research workers are unionizing ‘to create an industry that works for them’

A supermajority of user research workers at Activision have voted to unionize under the Communications Workers of America (CWA) banner.

The CWA confirmed the news in a press release and explained those workers will become members of CWA Local 9400. Microsoft has recognized the union, which has named itself Activision User Research Union-CWA.

Activision User Research Union-CWA is hoping to secure higher wages, job security and protections amid rampant layoffs, and transparency around promotions and career advancement.

It has become the first union formed by video game user researchers—but joins a number of others that have emerged at Microsoft after the company signed a labor neutrality agreement with the CWA.

“We are excited to join our fellow game makers across the video game industry to show what’s possible when workers can freely build solidarity in the workplace,” said organizing committee member and quantitative user researcher Nicolaas VanMeerten. “Many of us were mobilized to do something about the layoffs in 2023 and 2024, and now we can look out for each other with a union.”

CWA Local 9400 president Maurice Washington said it’s critical that workers in the game industry have a “protected voice” to ensure they can fight for their fair share.

Related:‘We need to define what it means to be safe as [players] around the world:’ a code of ethics in gaming

“We are proud to welcome these workers to CWA and are looking forward to meeting Microsoft at the bargaining table to secure a fair union contract,” they added.

The news caps a remarkable few days for unionizing workers in the game industry. United Videogame Workers-CWA (UVW-CWA) broke cover at GDC 2025 last week to fight for “dignity and respect.”

The union attracted 100 new members within hours of launching and has now welcomed over 350 due-paying members into its ranks.

As a direct-join union, UVW-CWA is open to contractors, freelancers, and developers directly impacted by layoffs. It’s a setup the union hopes will enable industry-wide reform by uniting swathes of developers across the U.S. and Canada.

“Industry bosses have shown time and time again that they will choose the siren call of profit over uplifting workers or doing what’s right,” said UVW-CWA last week. “Now is the time to stand with your peers, and fight for the dignity and respect you deserve.”

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