Following extensive reporting of the toxic work culture within Ubisoft Singapore, the company is now under watch by an agency that has received anonymous tips regarding the state of things within the developer.
The Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (Tafep) told Singapore outlet The Strait Times it received the tip on July 23, and is asking anyone with knowledge of the alleged sexual harassment and assault incidents at Ubisoft Singapore to report these incidents to the police. According to The Strait Times’ report, Tafep investigations typically require interviews with those affected by instances of harassment, as well as witnesses, and reviewing of whatever documentation those involved may have to further illustrate the state of the company’s workplace culture. Depending on the nature of its findings, Tafep may require the implementation of new policies within the company.
Tafep’s investigation follows recent developments surrounding Ubisoft’s workplace culture worldwide after a public controversy last year regarding the deeply ingrained sexism employees had been dealing with for several years. Nearly a year later, employees were reportedly unhappy with management’s attempts to create a safer work environment. Shortly after, Ubisoft higher-ups were the subject of a French court complaint for their part in enabling the harassment and sexism that has been going on within the company.
Last month, Activision-Blizzard became the subject of a lawsuit in the state of California for similar issues in its workplace, which was followed by a walkout by employees. Ubisoft workers wrote a letter in solidarity with those participating, while also calling for accountability and change from its own leadership. CEO Yves Guillemot responded to the letter, but worker representatives said they found his response inadequate, as it circumvented issues like management’s protection of individuals who were major parts of the workplace harassment happening within the company. Some offenders, such as Hugues Ricour, the former managing director of Ubisoft Singapore, were moved to a different position within the company rather than fired outright.
