General
Addressing Human Rights in Esports: 3 Insights from the New SESF Survey
Esports, a realm that blends competitive gaming with a global community, is not exempt from critical issues, particularly those concerning human rights. The Swiss Esports Federation (SESF) has embarked on a vital mission to unearth these challenges within its ranks. Their comprehensive survey offers a deep dive into the prevalent issues plaguing the Swiss esports community, serving as a crucial indicator for the industry worldwide. This detailed examination of the survey sheds light on the significant human rights concerns and suggests pathways for improvement.
Table of Contents
Human Rights Survey Overview
Launched in 2021, the SESF’s landmark survey ventured into uncharted territory by probing sensitive issues that often lurk beneath the surface in esports. This initiative aimed to identify and scrutinize the challenges faced by esports participants, covering a range of topics from sexual harassment and discrimination to health-related concerns. The survey’s objective was not just to reveal these issues but to understand their root causes and contexts. The participation of a diverse group of esports stakeholders – from players and coaches to administrative staff – ensured a comprehensive perspective on the state of human rights within the Swiss esports community.
Detailed Findings
- Sexual Harassment and Abuse: The survey unveiled alarming rates of sexual harassment and abuse within the esports sphere. Participants reported a variety of incidents, including unsolicited sexual messages, inappropriate physical contact, and coercive behavior. These reports came from various levels within the esports community, indicating a systemic issue that permeates through different tiers of interaction.
- Discrimination: The data revealed concerning trends of discrimination based on gender, race, and nationality. This discrimination manifests in various forms, from overtly prejudiced remarks to subtle yet impactful biases in team selection and tournament participation. The survey highlights a disturbing undercurrent of intolerance and exclusion, undermining the ethos of equality and fair play that esports purports to uphold.
- Health Issues: Esports players are increasingly facing a myriad of health issues. The survey shed light on the physical strains of prolonged gaming, such as repetitive strain injuries and eye strain, as well as mental health concerns including stress, anxiety, and the impact of cyberbullying. These findings draw attention to the often-overlooked aspect of player well-being in the competitive rush of esports.
Broader Context and Global Relevance of Human Rights
The SESF survey’s findings resonate with a global audience, as they mirror issues faced in the wider esports community beyond Switzerland. This section explores how the challenges identified in the survey are indicative of broader, international trends in esports. By comparing these findings with reports and studies from other countries, the article highlights the universal nature of these challenges and underscores the need for a global response. This comparative analysis not only contextualizes the SESF survey but also fosters a sense of global solidarity and shared responsibility in addressing these issues.
Implications and Recommendations
Based on the survey’s findings, this section delves into specific recommendations for addressing the identified challenges. It suggests policy changes, such as implementing stricter codes of conduct and establishing clearer reporting mechanisms for harassment and discrimination. The recommendations also emphasize the importance of community engagement strategies, including awareness campaigns and support networks, to foster a culture of respect and inclusion. Furthermore, the article proposes ideas for international collaborations, leveraging the collective expertise and resources of the global esports community to develop more comprehensive solutions.
Key recommendations include:
- Training and Education: Implement comprehensive training programs for players and coaches on preventing abuse and discrimination.
- Inclusion Initiatives: Develop projects to enhance the inclusion of players with disabilities and promote diversity.
- Health and Well-being Focus: Organize events and educational sessions to raise awareness about responsible gaming practices and address physical and mental health issues.
Conclusion
The SESF survey is a critical step in acknowledging and addressing human rights issues in esports. It highlights the need for collaborative efforts to ensure a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment in the esports community worldwide. As esports continues to expand, prioritizing the well-being and rights of its participants is essential for its sustainable and ethical growth.
Source: SESF // Image Source: PicPedia
Author
The international full service law firm CMS has provided comprehensive legal counsel to the Esports World Cup Foundation in organizing the first-ever Esports World Cup (EWC), set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, over eight weeks from July to August 2024.
The Esports World Cup is poised to make history, with over 1,500 players from more than 60 countries competing in 21 of the world’s most popular games for a share of a record-breaking USD 60 million prize pool.
“This is a monumental event in the history of esports,”
commented Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation.
“We are witnessing the convergence of gaming and sports as universal languages, uniting the global community through competition, advancing the esports industry, and fostering growth across the entire network.”
A global CMS team, led by Dr. Pietro Graf Fringuelli and Samuel Oustayiannis, consisting of over 30 lawyers from Germany, the UK, and Saudi Arabia, provided legal advice on all aspects of the EWC. This included team agreements, tournament rules, sponsorship contracts, media rights distribution, and partnerships with game publishers.
Dr. Pietro Graf Fringuelli, Partner at CMS Germany and Co-Head of the international CMS Technology, Media & Communications Group, stated,
“The esports industry is growing at an astonishing pace, drawing record numbers of viewers worldwide. The EWC will transform the entire esports landscape and contribute to developing a sustainable ecosystem.”
The Esports World Cup, supported by major sponsors like Sony, TikTok, Amazon, Adidas, Pepsi, and MasterCard, is an annual tournament series featuring over 450 teams globally. The event is accessible to both professional esports players and gaming enthusiasts, with broadcasts on television and streams across various digital platforms. Featured games include League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, Counter-Strike 2, EA Sports FC 24, and Fortnite.
CMS Partner Sam Oustayiannis, leading the UK team on media rights and partnerships, added,
“The Esports World Cup is a unique event attracting significant interest from competitors, sponsors, and the media. We’ve assembled a collaborative team across multiple offices to cover all legal aspects, ensuring a successful and enjoyable event. We eagerly anticipate the future of the Esports World Cup!”
The EWC continues in Riyadh until August 24, 2024, marking a new chapter in esports with CMS playing a crucial role as the legal advisor to the organizers.
CMS Legal Team Overview for Esports World Cup
CMS Germany
- Dr. Pietro Graf Fringuelli – Lead Partner, TMC (Technology, Media & Communications)
- Dr. Sebastian Cording – Partner, TMC
- Dr. Markus Häuser – Partner, TMC
- Dr. Patrick Ehinger – Counsel, TMC
- Dr. Fiona Savary – Counsel, TMC
- Dr. Felix Glocker – Senior Associate, TMC
- Georg Schneider – Senior Associate, TMC
- Lara Grünberg – Associate, TMC
- Dr. Malte Bruhns – Partner, Corporate/M&A
- Dr. Henrik Meurer – Associate, Corporate/M&A
- Dr. Martin Gerecke – Partner, IP (Intellectual Property)
- Dr. Tobias Nasr – Senior Associate, IP
- Dr. Robert Budde – Partner, Commercial
- Phillip Bubinger – Counsel, Commercial
- Prof. Dr. Björn Gaul – Partner, Labor, Employment & Pensions
- Victoria Kaule – Counsel, Labor, Employment & Pensions
- Hanna Hamacher – Senior Associate, Labor, Employment & Pensions
- Thomas Gerdel – Partner, Tax
- Dr. Hendrik Arendt – Senior Associate, Tax
- Christoff Soltau – Partner, Antitrust, Competition & Trade
- Dr. Denis Schlimpert – Counsel, Antitrust, Competition & Trade
CMS Saudi Arabia
- Mohammed Aldowish – Partner
- Wala Alawajy
- Sara Alsaud
- Reem Alsmail
CMS United Arab Emirates
- Ben Gibson – Partner
CMS UK
- Sam Oustayiannis – Partner
- Rebekah Hayes – Partner
- Coralie Barker
- Georgia Clark
- Harry Hall
- Laurel O’Dell
- Carter Rich
- Hamish Temporal
- Daniel West
Author
General
Introducing Valentin de Roany: Project Coordinator for Esports Tournaments and Legal Databases at Esports Legal News
Esports Legal News is thrilled to welcome Valentin de Roany as our new Project Coordinator for Esports Tournaments and Legal Databases. Valentin brings a unique blend of legal acumen and esports expertise, honed through years of dedication in both fields.
Currently in his final year of law studies, Valentin has already made a significant impact in the legal world. A distinguished mooter, he represented his university at an international competition, playing a key role in securing a top placement for his team. His passion for the law extends beyond the classroom, where he revitalized mooting and negotiation programs, mentoring new students and sharpening the skills of seasoned advocates.
Valentin’s journey in the esports realm is equally impressive. He has served in various coaching roles, nurturing the growth of promising talents and leading teams to success. His leadership in a grassroots esports organization, where he navigated cultural and linguistic challenges, showcases his ability to build bridges and drive success across different regions.
With dual French-Australian citizenship, Valentin is well-versed in connecting diverse esports communities. He brings his rich experiences to Esports Legal News, where he will streamline complex legal information and contribute to the growth of our esports initiatives. Though he’s always eager to share his insights, Valentin remains careful to distinguish his advice from formal legal counsel.
We are excited to see Valentin apply his leadership, strategic thinking, and passion for esports to help drive Esports Legal News to new heights.
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General
Play By The Rules: Esports Legal Forum Announced for ESI Lisbon 2024
Esports Insider’s events arm ESI Events has announced the launch of “Play By The Rules,” a pioneering legal forum dedicated to the esports sector, taking place as part of ESI Lisbon from 23 September to 25 September 2024.
In cooperation with international lawyers Leonid Shmatenko (Eversheds Sutherland) and Rodolphe Ruffié-Farrugia (Clifford Chance) as well as Esports Legal News, this inaugural event aims to set the standard for esports-focused legal conferences worldwide.
ESI Events and the co-organisers intend for “Play By The Rules” to provide a platform for legal professionals (including attorneys, in-house-lawyers, academics and students), industry stakeholders, and esports enthusiasts to delve into the complex legal landscape of the esports sector. The forum will have a focus on player contracts, intellectual property, governance and regulation, streaming rights and more.
Key Dates
- September 24, 2024: Play By The Rules Conference (Concurrent with ESI Lisbon Day 1 and taking place at the same venue)
- September 25, 2024: Exclusive access for PBTR speakers, sponsors, and VIP guests to ESI Lisbon Day 2 and the SBC Summit
“Play By The Rules” will cover a broad spectrum of legal questions affecting the global esports industry through stage talks, roundtable discussions and focussed group networking, with an emphasis on creating actionable takeaways for attendees. Key areas of discussion will include:
- Player contracts and rights
- Intellectual property challenges
- Governance and regulatory frameworks
- Streaming and broadcasting rights
- Dispute resolution mechanisms
Attendees will also have the opportunity to attend the evening social event, the ESI Film Festival at the MEO Arena with food and beverage, gaining detailed insights into esports, gaming and intersecting industries through short films that shine a light on stories behind the screens.
Running alongside the SBC Summit, which anticipates over 25,000 attendees, ESI Lisbon will feature:
Already confirmed attendees at ESI Lisbon include:
- Formula One
- Savvy Games
- UNICEF
- Samsung Ads
- OverActive Media
- Deutsche Telekom
- Radisson Hotel Group
- Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One
- Twitch
- BLAST
- ESL FACEIT Group
- Chess.com
- Electronic Arts
- Ubisoft
- City Football Group
- Visit Raleigh
- Team Liquid
- Moonton
- Visit Qatar
- OG Esports
- Wasserman
- & many, many more
Sam Cooke, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Esports Insider, said:
“We are thrilled to launch ‘Play By The Rules’ in partnership with Leonid Shmatenko of Eversheds Sutherland and Rodolphe Ruffié-Farrugia of Clifford Chance as part of ESI Lisbon 2024. Our new esports legal forum represents a first and important step in addressing the complex legal challenges within the esports industry, providing a dedicated forum for discussion, innovation, and actionable solutions. By bringing together the brightest minds in esports law, we aim to set a new standard for legal excellence in this rapidly evolving sector.”
Leonid Shmatenko, Senior Associate at Eversheds Sutherland and Founder of Esports Legal News, commented:
“After an extensive search for a comparable event in the market, I found numerous conferences that addressed video games law but none that focused specifically on the unique legal challenges in esports. Esports is a rapidly growing field with its own set of legal considerations, and it is high time we had a dedicated platform to address these issues. I approached ESI with this concept and their enthusiasm and commitment to excellence made them the perfect partner. Together, we aim to set new standards in the esports law conference world, providing invaluable insights and fostering a deeper understanding of the legal landscape in esports.”
Rodolphe Ruffié-Farrugia, Counsel at Clifford Chance and co-founder of Esports Legal News, said:
“For years now, esports has been a booming industry and we have witnessed the emergence of a wide variety of professional stakeholders, including the players themselves, their teams, the leagues, tournament organisers… Yet, the legal industry has not been as quick in adapting to the unique needs and high stakes at play in esports, no doubt because lawyers and gamers tend to evolve in different worlds. Knowing well these communities from within both personally and professionally, I have made it a mission years ago to build bridges between them. I feel very lucky to have found like-minded peers in Leonid and ESI to create this first-of-its-kind summit, a turning point in bringing esports and the law together.”
Tickets to B2B esports, games and creator economy event and industry festival ESI Lisbon are still available. Early bird tickets offering 33% off are available until August 23rd. For more information and to purchase a ticket, click here.
Author
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