Former Ubisoft Employees Detained for Sexual Harassment and Assault Allegations
Five former employees of Ubisoft, a game studio, have been taken into police custody this week following allegations of sexual harassment and assault that occurred over three years ago. The news was first reported by French newspaper Libération. Three of the former employees were questioned on Tuesday, while the other two were taken into custody on Wednesday.
The individuals brought in for questioning include Sege Hascoët, the former Chief Creative Officer of Ubisoft, and Tommy François, the former Editorial Vice President. François has been accused of sexual harassment and assault during his time at the company. Alleged victims claimed that they were either told to accept such behavior or leave the company by HR.
The allegations against François date back to 2015 when he reportedly tried to forcibly kiss an employee at a company party. The victim was told by Ubisoft representatives that she had misinterpreted the incident and that it was meant to be humorous. Hascoët has also been blamed for permitting this behavior at Ubisoft.
Ongoing French Investigation into Ubisoft
This week’s detainments are part of a broader investigation into Ubisoft that began in 2021. French police have already spoken with approximately 50 current and former employees as part of their inquiry into the studio’s culture, which has been described as having a “boy’s club” atmosphere.
The plaintiffs in the case, including the French game workers’ union Solidaires Informatique and two individuals who alleged harassment, claim that Ubisoft fosters a “schoolboy atmosphere.” They allege that women at the company were subjected to sexual gestures and physical harassment within the office.
Ubisoft’s Response
As of now, Ubisoft has not responded to requests for comment regarding these recent developments. The company is a prominent game publisher known for franchises like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry. In addition to its gaming ventures, Ubisoft has also ventured into the world of NFTs and blockchain technology.
Hot Take: Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Gaming Industry
The detention of former Ubisoft employees highlights the prevalence of sexual harassment and assault in the gaming industry. It is crucial for companies like Ubisoft to take these allegations seriously and create safe and inclusive work environments. The ongoing investigation serves as a reminder that change is necessary to eradicate toxic cultures within the industry. By holding individuals accountable and implementing robust policies, the gaming industry can strive towards equality and respect for all employees.
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