Google DeepMind staff in the UK are attempting to unionize to challenge the company’s decision to sell its artificial intelligence technologies to defense groups and its connections to the Israeli government.
Approximately 300 employees in London, from the tech giant’s AI division led by Nobel laureate Sir Demis Hassabis, have sought membership with the Communication Workers Union in recent weeks, according to sources familiar with the situation.
This move introduces new tensions for DeepMind, which faces pressure from its corporate parent to find commercial applications for its advanced AI. Hassabis recently suggested that businesses in democratic nations should collaborate to support national security.
The push for unionization comes amid growing dissatisfaction after Google’s February decision to abandon its pledge not to develop AI technologies that could potentially cause harm, such as those used in weapons and surveillance.
Informed sources indicated concern has increased due to reports of Google selling cloud and AI services to the Israeli Ministry of Defence. The Israeli government has a $1.2 billion agreement with Google and Amazon, known as Project Nimbus.
Concerns have also been fueled by reports suggesting the Israel Defense Forces have employed AI systems for targeting in the Gaza Strip, although it’s unclear if these are commercially acquired software or developed in-house. The IDF has not commented on these reports.
An engineer involved in the unionization effort expressed concern over the potential use of cutting-edge AI in conflicts, noting that employees are uncomfortable with the idea.
Over recent months, five DeepMind employees have reportedly resigned, citing the Israel cloud project and Google’s policy reversals regarding AI use. In the US, some Google employees were dismissed for protesting against Project Nimbus.
In May 2024, DeepMind personnel submitted a letter urging company leaders to renounce military contracts. Meetings with management have occurred, but requests have been declined.
For formal recognition, the union’s establishment necessitates a vote among DeepMind employees in the UK, where the AI group employs about 2,000 staff members.
Google, through a spokesperson, stated that it remains committed to the responsible development and deployment of AI and supports open dialogue with its employees. The company maintains adherence to its AI principles, though it acknowledges changes in the landscape since its 2018 commitment against AI weaponry and surveillance.
Unionization efforts have been historically rare in the tech sector, yet there has been a rise in activity recently, including at corporations like Amazon and Apple. In 2021, Google employees established the Alphabet Workers Union in the US.
If recognized, the union aims to engage with management to reconsider defense-related deals. Failure to reach an agreement may result in strike consideration, with discussions also occurring among US colleagues.
Google has previously faced protests over its military affiliations. In 2018, Project Maven—a contract utilizing AI for military drone enhancements—sparked resignations and a petition from employees, leading Google not to renew the contract or pursue similar AI projects.
A senior figure in the CWU noted that original aspirations of the company drew individuals motivated to contribute positively, but has observed a shift towards military profiteering. Despite high salaries, staff have joined the union to hold Google accountable for ethical commitments.
A DeepMind engineer involved in organizing the union remarked on the extraordinary nature of these events but emphasized a growing discomfort among employees regarding the company’s direction, suggesting a prioritization of profit over ethics.
