Three employees of Evolution, an online gaming technology provider in Tbilisi, Georgia, have initiated a hunger strike to protest against inadequate pay and unfavorable working conditions. Tamar Ansian, Makhare Patashuri, and Luka Nadiradze began their extreme form of protest on August 12, asserting they will not eat until the demands of the striking workers are fulfilled.
Since July 12, more than half of Evolution Georgia’s workforce, comprising around 4,000 employees, has been striking. Evolution specializes in live casino streams, and many discontented workers are either game presenters or croupiers, who conduct games in studios housed at Evolution’s Tbilisi offices.
The employees, represented by Evo Union, have claimed they face poor working conditions and inadequate pay. They report unsanitary and hazardous work environments, including dirty tables and mosquito infestations that have led to severe skin conditions, infections, and allergies. Workers also endure extended hours in uncomfortable chairs under harsh lights and poor air conditioning.
According to Evolution Georgia’s payment policy, a full-time game presenter earns up to $329 per month for day shifts and $450 for night shifts. However, workers contend that their net hourly wages are significantly lower, around $1 for dealers and $1.80 for game presenters. While additional monthly bonuses range from $110 to $145, these are often forfeited if workers end a shift due to illness, which is frequent given the alleged conditions. In contrast, the average hourly wage in Tbilisi is about $5.50.
The situation escalated when leaked Facebook conversations between Evolution managers surfaced, revealing employees being mocked with racist and sexist comments. This incident appears to have been the tipping point for the workers.
The union has outlined numerous demands, including salary increases, annual inflation adjustments, more frequent breaks during shifts, a safer working environment, better health benefits, and menstrual leave. Additionally, they seek the inclusion of a system that allows players to tip dealers.
Evolution has labeled the strike as “illegal” and warned of potential large-scale layoffs and operational adjustments if the situation continues. In a Facebook post on August 1, the company expressed regret, stating, “We have spent six years investing in the country, offering first-time employment to many Georgians, and the situation is highly regrettable both for Evolution as well as for the many working employees who will be affected by these actions.”
