Square Enix Unveils Robust Policy to Safeguard Employees from Harassment

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

Square Enix has proactively introduced a comprehensive anti-harassment policy designed to protect its workforce and collaborators from online abuse. The policy clearly defines unacceptable behavior, encompassing threats of violence, defamation, and other forms of harassment. The company asserts its right to deny services and pursue legal action against individuals engaging in such conduct.

The policy's implementation reflects a growing concern within the gaming industry regarding online harassment. High-profile incidents, such as death threats against actors and the cancellation of events due to threats of violence, underscore the need for such protective measures. Square Enix's policy aims to prevent similar situations from affecting its employees and partners.

The detailed policy, published on the Square Enix website, covers a wide range of harassing behaviors targeting employees at all levels, from support staff to executives. While encouraging fan feedback, the company firmly states that harassment is unacceptable. The policy explicitly outlines what constitutes harassment, including:

Harassment Defined:

Acts of violence or threats of violence
Abusive language, intimidation, coercion, excessive pursuit, or reprimand
Defamation, slander, personal attacks (across various online platforms), and threats of business disruption
Persistent inquiries and repeated unwanted contact
Trespassing on company property
Unlawful restraint through phone calls or online interactions
Discriminatory language or behavior based on race, ethnicity, religion, etc.
Privacy violations (unauthorized photography or video recording)
Sexual harassment and stalking

Undue Demands:

Unreasonable product exchanges or demands for monetary compensation
Unreasonable apology demands
Excessive requests for products or services
Unreasonable demands for employee punishment

Square Enix reserves the right to suspend services and initiate legal action against perpetrators exhibiting malicious intent. This proactive stance is a necessary response to the increasing prevalence of online harassment within the gaming community. Past incidents, including death threats against Square Enix staff and the cancellation of events due to threats, highlight the critical need for such a policy. The recent backlash against a voice actor in Final Fantasy XIV further emphasizes the urgency of protecting individuals from online abuse. This policy serves as a clear message that Square Enix prioritizes the safety and well-being of its employees and partners.