Evolution Georgia Strike Advances into Second Month with No Resolution in Sight

According to the Georgian trade union, LABOR, the strike at Evolution Gaming’s facility in Tbilisi, Georgia, is the longest strike in the country’s history as it advances into its second month. Over 400 workers remain on strike, standing resolute in their demands for improved working conditions despite the escalating tensions and difficulties they face.

Some Workers Resorted to Desperate Measures

The strike, which began in mid-July 2023, escalated in August, with demands for pay rises, holiday overtime, safer working conditions, and the presence of an on-site doctor. Many workers allege harassment both from online casino customers and management. Employees also complained about penalties for leaving their station during work, even for health-related reasons.

At the center of the dispute is the demand for a 100% pay increase, which would bring online dealers’ wages in line with those in brick-and-mortar casinos in Tbilisi. The striking workers have also asked for improved sanitary conditions in the workplace, which employs about 7,000 people and is one of Georgia’s most significant private employers.

Several workers, like Mahare Patashuri,  launched an indefinite hunger strike to protest the company’s neglect. Patashuri was hospitalized after 28 days without food, symbolizing the severe conditions driving workers’ desperation. Though the hunger strikes have since ended, the labor unrest continues. However, Evolution so far refuses to negotiate.

Evolution Faces Rising Global Backlash

Labor unions in Sweden, Evolution’s home country, have been very vocal in supporting Georgian workers. President of UNI Europa, Peter Hellberg, was dismayed at the gambling company’s refusal to engage with the striking employees. He joined other unions like Engineers of Sweden and Unionen in calling for immediate negotiations in line with OECD guidelines.

Swedish companies operating abroad cannot hide behind references to local laws. Responsible business also includes living up to basic union and human rights.

Peter Hellberg, UNI Europa president

The strike has also been drawing attention overseas, with the US Culinary Workers Union Local 226 intervening during a Nevada Gaming Commission meeting, calling for Evolution’s license application to be rejected unless it improves its treatment of employees. This is happening at a pivotal moment for Evolution, which is undertaking the acquisition of 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.

Giedre Lelyte, UNI Global Union Head of Gaming 

Despite ongoing challenges, Evolution has maintained its stance, with workers reporting intensified security measures and alleged assaults by hired security personnel. LABOR, the trade union leading the strike, has kept the picket at the gambling company’s Tbilisi facility, calling for further demonstrations in September to continue their struggle for better working conditions.