Yesterday WESA, the World Esports Association, announced the installation of its own arbitration court which will operate independently from all organisations, including WESA itself.
The arbitration court is set up to offer "legal framework that can be used to resolve a range of issues, including contract disputes, prize money pay out and distribution, financial misconduct and player representation," as phrased by the press release. "The issues will be decided by an impartial panel of three Arbitrators, although the parties can also agree to utilise a single arbitrator (sole arbitrator) for certain disputes. The decisions at the end of the confidential proceedings are final and there are no appeals."
"The creation of an independent arbitration process is an important step to achieve one of WESA's goals to professionalise esports," said Executive Chairman and Commissioner of WESA Ken Hershman. "The impartial nature of the arbitration process ensures a variety of issues - from contract disputes to prize money distribution and many others - can be handled expeditiously in a fair, equitable and cost effective manner."
"Having a framework, processes and a legal body to turn to when needed is an important next step in ensuring that professional gamers and their careers are guarded," said Players Council Chairman Viktor Jendeby. "With the arbitration court in place, I am confident that Players and Teams they play for will receive necessary help and support when needed, and that their interests will be protected."
The court can be contacted at [email protected] and the normal arbitration process will start with written submissions to the court. Do you think this is a positive step by WESA?