Evolution Georgia Employees Commence Full-Scale Strike
Today begins a large labor strike by the employees of Evolution Georgia, a subsidiary of the Swedish company Evolution, listed on the Stockholm stock exchange. iGamingExpress remains in close contact with the union and will provide ongoing updates on the strike’s progress.
Evolution Georgia, which employs almost 8,000 people and provides services to various international online casinos, is facing this significant industrial action due to recent internal conflicts and revelations of discriminatory practices.
Reasons Behind the Strike
The situation escalated after internal communications revealed discriminatory remarks by company management, including sexist and racist comments.
The leak has intensified the resolve of employees to demand better working conditions and fair treatment. The discontent was further fueled by a video showing janitors forced to take breaks in deplorable conditions.
“We are going on a lifelong full-scale strike to demand an increase in wages and decent working conditions until the problems and demands are fully met,” declared Giorgi Diasamidze, chairman of the Labor Union, at an emergency briefing.
Conflicting Reports on Participation
There is a stark contrast between the company’s and the union’s estimates regarding the strike’s scale. Evolution Georgia claims that no more than 500 employees will participate in the strike.
However, the Labor Union asserts that 5,000 employees are expected to join the strike, accusing the company of misleading the central office regarding the number of participants.
According to the Labor Union, the company has attempted to undermine the strike by offering additional compensation to employees willing to replace those on strike. They report that staff shortages have already led to the closure of several tables.
Despite the company’s statement condemning the exposed communications and vowing a thorough investigation, employees view this response as inadequate given the scope of the allegations.
The union, supported by local rights groups like the Social Justice Centre, calls for more robust intervention by the government’s Labour Inspection Service.
On July 12 at 12:00 PM, Evolution Georgia employees began their full-scale strike, with civil groups planning a solidarity rally at 7:00 PM the same day.
Public Defender’s Involvement
The Public Defender of Georgia has responded to the planned strike, highlighting that approximately 4,600 employees are expected to participate.
The Public Defender’s office emphasized the importance of protecting employees’ labor rights, stating, “Healthy and safe working conditions and fair wages are integral parts of labor rights and are essential for a dignified life.”
The office urged Evolution Georgia to engage in active communication with the employees and address their concerns through consensus, avoiding actions that undermine their dignity.
The Labor Inspection Service has already begun investigating the issues at Evolution Georgia, and the Public Defender expressed hope for a thorough and timely resolution in accordance with the law.
