‘Used, abused, and discarded:’ CWA Canada slams Microsoft over handling of Bethesda layoffs
Microsoft conducted a major organizational restructuring this week that resulted in 3,200 job eliminations and the divestment of five internal studios across Xbox. The Communication Workers of America (CWA) reports that hundreds of unionized employees were affected by the layoffs, including approximately twelve workers at Bethesda Game Studios Montreal.
The handling of the Montreal layoffs drew particular criticism from CWA Canada. Affected employees—some of whom had worked at Bethesda for up to a decade—were informed of their termination during brief three-minute video calls. Union members reported they were unable to ask questions and were instructed to remain at home for the following eight weeks while continuing to receive pay, though full severance details remained unclear.
CWA Canada president Carmel Smyth characterized the situation as workers being “used, abused, and discarded,” emphasizing that employees “deserve protection, not to be treated like disposable line items.” In response, the CWA announced it would take “all necessary legal and contractual action” to defend affected members, including immediate negotiations for fair severance packages, decisions on vendor contracts, potential internal placement in open roles, and recall rights for future positions. The union’s response signals intent to pursue formal grievances and advocate for stronger worker protections during Microsoft’s restructuring.