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CWA Canada slams Microsoft over handling of Bethesda layoffs
CWA Canada has publicly condemned Microsoft for its recent layoffs at Bethesda Game Studios Montreal, where union members were terminated in a brief video call without the opportunity to ask questions. The union president noted the emotional toll this has taken on employees, many of whom worked at Bethesda for years. As Microsoft plans further layoffs across Xbox, concerns about morale and job security in the gaming industry are rising due to perceived ruthless employer practices.
MonitorConfidence: MediumShort term horizonReputational risk: High
Published 8 Jul 2026, 14:33 UTC3 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- Around a dozen union members laid off at Bethesda Game Studios Montreal
- Employees received layoff news during a three-minute video call
- CWA Canada describes layoffs as psychological warfare
- Microsoft plans to eliminate 3,200 roles by fiscal year-end
- Union vows to take legal action to protect affected employees
- Employees report low morale and job security concerns
Interesting facts
- Affected employees had ten years of service at Bethesda.
- CWA Canada has pledged to demand improved severance and internal placement rights.