Evolution Accuses Swedish Regulator of Bias in OECD Complaint
Evolution has accused Sweden’s National Contact Point (NCP) of bias in handling a complaint filed by a Georgian trade union, and has submitted a formal grievance to the OECD’s central office.
Background of the Dispute
In July 2024, employees at Evolution’s Tbilisi studio went on strike. The Georgian union Evo-Union, supported by the Social Justice Centre, filed a complaint alleging low wages, poor working conditions, and interference with union organizing efforts.
Despite Evolution’s rebuttals, the Swedish NCP issued a final statement in August 2025 recommending actions for the company. Evolution maintains that the complaint should have been dismissed, as all allegations were, according to the company, disproven.
Company’s Response
CEO Martin Carlesund stated that the process was one-sided and has damaged Evolution’s international reputation:
Even though we disproved all allegations, we were still issued ‘recommendations’—a complaint that should have been closed, and our reputation restored.
Challenging the Union’s Conduct
Evolution claims it withdrew from further dialogue not out of disregard for the process, but due to the union’s own actions, including:
- Intimidating employees who did not join the strike
- Unlawfully entering office premises
- Deliberate property damage
- Blocking access to company buildings
According to Carlesund, such behavior makes negotiations with the union impossible.
NCP Recommendations and Company’s Position
Despite what it called “fundamental disagreements” between the parties, the Swedish NCP recommended Evolution to:
- Resume dialogue with the union
- Improve workplace safety
- Ensure fair wages
- Respect workers’ right to organize
Evolution argues that these recommendations disregard its existing internal policies and adherence to the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, which are reflected in its corporate reporting.
Concerns About the NCP Procedure
Carlesund questioned the impartiality of the process, stating:
The outcome would have been the same even if we hadn’t participated.
He emphasized that although the NCP is not a judicial body, its actions create reputational damage by publishing recommendations despite counter-evidence. The company argues the process is flawed and in need of reform.
Complaint to OECD Headquarters
Evolution has submitted a final statement to the OECD’s central unit for Responsible Business Conduct. The letter states:
The current procedure is outdated and must be revised to uphold principles of equality and fairness.
The company affirms its support for global forums that protect workers’ rights but insists on the need to reform how such mechanisms operate.
Structure of Sweden’s NCP
Sweden’s NCP operates under the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and includes representatives from the government, trade unions, and employers’ organizations.