Square Enix Implements Employee Safety Measures Amidst Online Harassment

Square Enix Unveils Robust Anti-Harassment Policy to Protect Employees and Partners

Responding to the rising tide of online harassment within the gaming industry, Square Enix has proactively introduced a comprehensive anti-harassment policy designed to safeguard its employees and collaborators. The policy explicitly defines various forms of unacceptable behavior, ranging from direct threats of violence and defamation to more subtle yet equally damaging actions.

The policy underscores Square Enix's commitment to fostering a safe and respectful environment. It details specific actions considered harassment, including but not limited to: threats of violence, abusive language, defamation, stalking, and discriminatory conduct. The company reserves the right to take decisive action against perpetrators, ranging from service termination to legal proceedings, particularly in cases involving malicious intent.

This proactive measure reflects a growing need within the gaming industry to address the alarming prevalence of online harassment. High-profile incidents, such as death threats against actors and the cancellation of events due to threats of violence, highlight the severity of the issue. Square Enix's policy serves as a strong statement against such behavior and a commitment to protecting its workforce.

The detailed policy, available on the Square Enix website, outlines specific examples of harassment:

Harassment Examples:

• Acts of violence or violent threats
• Abusive language, intimidation, coercion
• Defamation, personal attacks (across various online platforms)
• Persistent harassment, repeated unwanted contact
• Trespassing on company property
• Unlawful restraint through phone calls or online inquiries
• Discriminatory speech or conduct based on protected characteristics
• Privacy violations (unauthorized photography or recording)
• Sexual harassment or stalking

Undue Demands Examples:

• Unreasonable product exchanges or demands for monetary compensation
• Excessive apology demands
• Requests for products or services exceeding acceptable norms
• Unreasonable demands for employee punishment

Square Enix's decision to implement this policy is a significant step in creating a safer environment for its employees. Past incidents, including death threats against staff and the cancellation of events due to harassment, underscore the urgency of such measures. The policy's clear definition of harassment and its commitment to taking firm action sends a powerful message that such behavior will not be tolerated.