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Wikimedia Foundation Statement on US unionization request – Wikimedia Foundation
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Wikimedia Foundation Statement on US unionization request
By Wikimedia Foundation•27 July 2026
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The Wikimedia Foundation is a nonprofit organization guided by values centered on shared purpose, continuous improvement, welcoming participation, and open, curious dialogue. We aim to advance a more informed and inclusive world through our support of knowledge sharing and access, and recognize that this work begins with how we operate as an organization.
Recently, the Communication Workers of America (CWA), affiliated with the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), asked the Wikimedia Foundation to voluntarily recognize it as the exclusive collective bargaining representative for eligible US-based staff. The Foundation is the primary employer of 342 US-based staff, including managers. The Foundation works with employers of record to support 309 staff in 38 other countries who are not included in CWA’s request.
We understand the important role unions have played historically in advancing worker protections and representation. Two-thirds of the Wikimedia Foundation’s executive team come from union families or have been union members themselves.
Foundation leadership respects the right of staff to unionize, if they choose to do so. That decision rests with them. The perspectives expressed by CWA organizers reflect principles, including collaboration, openness, and fairness, that we take seriously. These principles are also important to our volunteer communities and those who support us.
We also know from listening to staff who have reached out to us that they hold a wide range of views on unionization, and that any decision in this area has implications for our global workforce, including those not eligible to join a US union. Our goal as leadership is to find solutions that work for all staff, and provide, as far as possible, a balanced work experience, and support our mission. This is especially important at a time when there are intense challenges externally, including declining readership and contributors to Wikipedia, changes in the technology environment, threats to free expression, and the need for financial resources to support our movement and staff globally.
As stated, the decision to unionize belongs to staff. The Foundation’s responsibility is to ensure that they can make their own choice freely. So that every eligible employee has an equal voice, we believe a secret-ballot election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board is the appropriate path forward. This process protects individual choice and ensures that any outcome reflects the collective will of those eligible to participate.
As conversations continue, we are committed to the following:
If an election is held, we will support a fair, lawful, and transparent process.
We will continue to ensure information and perspectives can be shared openly, while fostering a respectful environment for dialogue.
Participation in discussions or meetings related to this topic will remain voluntary.
If a majority of eligible employees vote in favor of union representation, we will work with the union and engage in good-faith collective bargaining.
We also remain committed to listening and ensuring that all staff feel heard, supported, and able to contribute to our shared mission. Please see the FAQ below for more information about this issue.
Frequently asked questions
How has leadership ensured fairness around unionization efforts at the Wikimedia Foundation?
We are guided by our values of openness, respect, and shared responsibility. We have been clear in staff meetings, written updates, and public communications that we respect employees’ right to unionize.
Managers have received guidance on how to support a fair and lawful process. Our goal is to ensure that everyone can make their own decision in an informed and civil environment.
What will the Foundation do if staff vote to unionize?
If a majority of eligible employees vote in favor of union representation, we will work with the union and negotiate in good faith toward a collective bargaining agreement.
Has the Wikimedia Foundation done anything to limit or block unionization efforts?
No. We have supported open discussion by making space for staff to speak with each other during working hours to share information about unionization efforts, ask questions, and meet. We remain committed to a fair, lawful process where employees can access information, discuss openly, and make their own choices. We believe this approach reflects our values and supports a respectful workplace.
Why won’t the Foundation voluntarily recognize the union?
We have heard a range of views from staff, including concerns from those who have felt pressured to support union efforts...