Square Enix Commits to Protecting Employees from Workplace Harassment

Square Enix is prepared to take appropriate measures against individuals who harass or threaten its staff.

The creator of The Last Story has refreshed its Community Customer Harassment Policy and stated it would actively defend its services from anyone who mistreats its employees or pursues legal action.

“Should Square Enix determine that an individual has engaged in behavior towards one of our employees or partners that surpasses accepted social norms or is detrimental, we maintain the right to cease offering support services or to withhold our organization’s products and services,” the policy states.

“In cases where such behavior is severe or malicious, Square Enix reserves its right to safeguard its employees and partners and may pursue legal actions or criminal proceedings after consulting with the police and/or legal counsel.”

The Japanese publisher indicated that harassment includes acts of violence, abusive language, intimidation, defamation, and personal attacks (including emails), as well as discriminatory remarks and actions, along with sexual harassment.

It also cautioned that unreasonable inquiries in the form of unjustified demands for compensation and harsh requests for punishing employees could also lead to potential action being taken.

Square Enix takes a stand against toxicity

Square noted that it remains receptive to feedback, suggestions, and other inquiries but acknowledged that there have been instances where some customers engaged in harassment directed at its executives, employees, and partners.

“Such actions not only hinder our employees and partners from performing their duties in a secure environment but also create interruptions for other customers,” it added. “Square Enix will not stand for harassment and will take necessary actions.”

Last year, the 2023 GDC State of the Industry report revealed that the vast majority of developers are concerned about targeted harassment from gamers. Among those surveyed, 91 percent of respondents indicated that they perceive toxicity aimed at studio employees as a significant issue.

These findings emerged following major companies like Sony Santa Monica and Respawn openly denouncing toxic player behavior, with Respawn specifically noting that it had seen “increased harassment towards members of our development team.”

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