The strike at Evolution Gaming’s facility in Tbilisi, Georgia, has now entered its second month, marking the longest strike in the country’s history. Over 400 workers are still on strike, standing firm in their demand for better working conditions. Despite growing tensions and the challenges the workers face, Evolution has not yet responded to their demands.
The strike started in mid-July 2023, and the situation intensified in August when additional redundancies and further changes were announced. Workers are asking for pay increases, better working conditions, holiday overtime, and access to an on-site doctor. Many employees have reported being harassed by both online casino customers and management. One major issue is the penalties imposed on workers for leaving their station, even when they have health concerns.
The workers are pushing for a 100% pay increase to bring their wages up to par with dealers working in physical casinos in Tbilisi. In addition, they are demanding cleaner and safer working environments at the Tbilisi facility, which employs around 7,000 people and is one of Georgia’s largest private employers.
In a desperate move, some workers began hunger strikes to draw attention to their cause. One worker, Mahare Patashuri, went 28 days without food before being hospitalized. While the hunger strikes have since ended, the strike itself continues. However, Evolution has remained firm, refusing to negotiate.
Meanwhile, Evolution is facing growing international criticism. Labor unions in Sweden, where Evolution is based, have publicly supported the Georgian workers. Peter Hellberg, president of UNI Europa, expressed his frustration with the company’s refusal to engage with employees. He emphasized that Swedish businesses must uphold basic union and human rights, even when operating abroad.
“Swedish companies operating abroad cannot hide behind references to local laws. Responsible business also includes living up to basic union and human rights,” Hellberg said.
The strike has gained attention beyond Europe. The Culinary Workers Union Local 226 in the United States raised concerns about Evolution’s treatment of workers during a Nevada Gaming Commission meeting, urging the commission to reject Evolution’s license application unless the company improves its employee practices. This comes at a crucial time for Evolution, as it is in the process of acquiring Galaxy Gaming in Las Vegas.
“Unions in Sweden, Spain, the United States, and beyond… recognize Evolution’s behavior for what it is: union busting. We won’t stop until Evolution respects workers and sits down to negotiate,” said Giedre Lelyte, UNI Global Union Head of Gaming.
Despite the pressure, Evolution has maintained its stance, with reports of heightened security at the Tbilisi facility and allegations of assaults by hired personnel. The trade union LABOR, which is leading the strike, has organized ongoing demonstrations at the site and plans further protests in September as part of their fight for fair treatment.
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