Evolution Georgia under fire. Trade union accuses of violence
The ongoing labor strike at Evolution Georgia, which began in mid-July has escalated significantly. This protest has not only gained considerable attention within Georgia but has also resonated internationally. The situation took a critical turn when one of the participants fell seriously ill and was hospitalized.
Violence allegations emerge
On August 13, three employees initiated a hunger strike, citing the company’s refusal to engage in negotiations as the primary motivation behind their drastic measure. The union representing the workers has reported several instances of alleged violence, accusing Evolution Georgia of attempting to suppress the protests by hiring groups to employ violent tactics.
According to the union, Evolution Georgia has taken severe actions against the protesters. “Last night (Sunday), the company locked the hunger strikers inside the building, moved their belongings to another part of the premises, and prevented other protesters from entering. This process lasted several hours,” the union stated. The union further claimed that essential services such as electricity and drinking water were cut off from the hunger strikers and other protesters, exacerbating the already tense situation.
“Union actions are illegal”
Evolution Georgia has countered these accusations by stating that the union’s actions are illegal and irresponsible. Carl Linton, Evolution’s head of investor relations, emphasized that the company had to secure its premises due to illegal blockades imposed by the strikers, which allegedly endangered the safety of other employees.
Linton also accused the union of spreading misinformation and endangering both workers and strikers by encouraging them to participate in unlawful activities.
OECD complaint
The conflict has attracted the attention of international labor organizations. UNI Global Union, an affiliate of the striking union, has publicly urged Evolution to negotiate, criticizing the company’s treatment of its workers.
Giedre Lelyte, head of gaming at UNI Global Union, stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that Evolution must stop endangering workers’ health and safety and begin negotiations with the union immediately.
The situation has also led to legal actions. The Social Justice Centre (SJC) in Tbilisi has filed a complaint with the Swedish contact points at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), accusing Evolution Georgia of violating guidelines on responsible business conduct, particularly regarding workers’ rights and union activities.
Impact extends to the United States
The repercussions of the dispute have extended beyond Georgia, reaching as far as the United States. The Culinary Workers Union in Nevada has raised concerns about Evolution’s labor practices during a recent gaming regulatory meeting.
This comes in the wake of Evolution’s announcement to acquire Las Vegas-based table game supplier Galaxy Gaming. The union has requested that Evolution’s license application in Nevada be denied if the company does not improve its treatment of employees.
