TAFEP concludes investigation into Ubisoft SG following discrimination claims

The Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) in Singapore has completed its investigation into video game developer Ubisoft, stating that the company has a structured system in place to handle any workplace misconduct reports and past reports were handled appropriately. The agency also stated that the employees’ salaries were performance-based. This follows claims of workplace discrimination and sexual harassment against the company last year.

Darryl Long, managing director, Ubisoft Singapore said that the company has put its best practices in place at the company, to ensure a safe, respectful, inclusive and equitable workplace for every member of the team. "We will continue striving to be an exemplary employer in Singapore and the region, one that attracts and retains the best talents and creates amazing games that enrich the lives of our players," he added.

TAFEP said that Ubisoft Singapore was fully cooperative throughout the investigation. As part of its investigation, TAFEP reviewed Ubisoft's responses to its inquiry and the processes and systems it has in place, including a confidential reporting channel for employees to raise such matters, the appointment of independent parties to examine reported cases, and its audited Code of Fair Conduct. TAFEP also found that Ubisoft Singapore has been handling all reports appropriately, with appropriate disciplinary action taken when warranted. 

Additionally, Ubisoft Singapore has appointed a third-party consultancy firm to review the company’s salary structure. Findings from the consultancy, which was shared with TAFEP, and additional checks by the industry body, revealed that Ubisoft Singapore’s salaries are performance-based. TAFEP also confirmed in a statement that the company has reasonable justifications for any disparities, such as employee experience or seniority.

The allegations against Ubisoft came to light in July last year when they were reported by video game news site Kotaku, which interviewed more than 20 current and former employees. According to Kotaku then, its Singapore operations experienced issues such as sexual harassment, bullying by managers and racial pay disparities. Several current and former employees had also claimed that HR was unhelpful when it concerned other complaints. For example, it reportedly swept complaints of sexual harassment under the rug, Kotaku said. 

Additionally, TAFEP's spokesperson told MARKETING-INTERACTIVE when it started investigation in August last year, that it received anonymous feedback in late July which contained links to media articles concerning claims of workplace harassment and unfair treatment at the company.

Meanwhile, Ubisoft's spokesperson told MARKETING-INTERACTIVE previously that it is aware of the feedback send to TAFEP. "Every Ubisoft studio, including Ubisoft Singapore, strives to create and foster a culture that team members and partners can be proud of. We do not and will not tolerate discrimination or abuse. We celebrate our international culture and work to ensure our teams are deeply integrated into their respective local communities," the spokesperson added.

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