Cisco Faces US Investigation Over Hostile Work Environment Allegations
A US investigation has found indications that Cisco Systems may have violated the civil rights of its Muslim and Middle Eastern employees, fostering a hostile work environment.
The investigation was initiated by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission after receiving complaints from Cisco employees in late 2024 regarding internal conflicts related to the company's partnerships with Israel and the Gaza Strip conflict.
A group of employees called for Cisco to cease providing technology to the Israeli government and military, citing concerns over potential use in military operations. An open letter signed by over 1,700 employees, out of a total workforce exceeding 86,000, was sent to management but later deleted from internal platforms.
The US agency concluded there are reasons to believe the company may have subjected some employees to a hostile work environment, although this does not constitute a final legal judgment.