Two days ago, it was alleged that Bobby Kotick was aware of sexual misconduct occurring within Activision, while it was also revealed he threatened to “destroy” a female employee over voicemail. However, in spite of these allegations, the company’s zero-tolerance policy on abuse and sexual harassment - implemented by Kotick last month - will reportedly not apply to him.

According to Game Developer, an internal call took place yesterday morning that addressed the claims made by the Wall Street Journal’s report; questions were pre-screened while leadership took charge of the meeting. Staff learned the zero-tolerance policy would not apply to Kotick as the company did not “have evidence” of any claims made against him. They also learned that their Thanksgiving break is going to be extended, which makes it seem as though management is trying to placate employees and stop tensions from rising further.

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Activision Blizzard is doubling down on defending Kotick despite allegations that he supported Treyarch co-founder Dan Bunting who is accused of harassing a female employee in 2017. HR recommended Bunting be fired but Kotick stepped in, leading to Bunting receiving counselling instead. He has since stepped down amidst the allegations. Kotick was also accused of threatening a woman over the phone which has not been denied, but it’s unclear which claims the company is doubling down on with the defence of not having any evidence.

Activision Kotick

The board went as far as to issue a statement backing Kotick and his handling of the company: “Under Bobby Kotick’s leadership, the company is already implementing industry-leading changes including a zero-tolerance harassment policy, a dedication to achieving significant increases to the percentages of women and non-binary people in our workforce and significant internal and external investments to accelerate opportunities for diverse talent.”

However, shares have dropped ten percent since the report as many shareholders have voiced that they stand with the employees, calling on Kotick to resign. The Strategic Organizing Center (SOC) Investment Group, a labour union, also penned a letter to Activision Blizzard standing with the employees: “In contrast to past company statements, CEO Bobby Kotick was aware of many incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and gender discrimination at Activision Blizzard, but failed to ensure that the executives and managers responsible were terminated or to recognize and address the systemic nature of the company’s hostile workplace culture.”

Next: Ex-Blizzard Co-Leader Jen Oneal Says She Was Only Offered Equal Pay After She Resigned