Activision Blizzard’s internal investigation finds that it didn’t ignore any harassment
The report also claims no harassment was withheld from the board, as previously accused
A summary of an internal investigation at Activision Blizzard has found “no evidence” that the company ignored harassment.
A November Wall Street Journal report alleged that Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick was aware of multiple sexual misconduct allegations at the company, some of which it claimed he withheld from the company’s board. Kotick has denied these allegations.
Activision Blizzard’s investigation, which did not directly address the Wall Street Journal’s earlier accusations, states: “Contrary to many of the allegations, the Board and its external advisors have determined that there is no evidence to suggest that Activision Blizzard senior executives ever intentionally ignored or attempted to downplay the instances of gender harassment that occurred and were reported.”
The statement continues: “That work also has not unearthed any evidence, directly or indirectly, suggesting any attempt by any senior executive or employee to conceal information from the Board.”
While it does reference “some substantial instances of gender harassment,” it does not conclude that this was a widespread issue.
“Over the years the company has appropriately disciplined and exited employees to ensure that our practices match our policies,” it said.
It also states that there was “simply no room at Activision Blizzard for anyone who does not practice our corporate value of providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming workplace that serves as a model for our industry.”
The company is currently trying to clean up its image ahead of plans to merge with Microsoft in a $68.7 billion deal.
Further reading
Microsoft says the Activision Blizzard acquisition is ‘moving fast’
Earlier this year, Activision Blizzard appointed Kristen Hines as its new chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer.
It said she will play a leading role in helping the company deliver on its commitment to grow the number of women and non-binary people in its workforce by 50 percent over the next five years.
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