US video games trade body the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has said that harassment has no place within the industry.

Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz, the organisation said that such behaviour is "unacceptable" in the games market, in reference to the on-going Activision Blizzard situation though the trade body never mentions that company by name.

"Harassment, abuse, or mistreatment of any kind in the workplace is unacceptable and must never be tolerated," the ESA said.

"When allegations arise, people impacted need to have their voices heard. Any allegation needs to be acknowledged, thoroughly investigated, and addressed with meaningful consequences. The vitality of our industry requires that everyone in the workplace - and in our communities - feels valued and respected. As an industry association, the ESA convenes its member companies to create dialogue and shape actions to ensure that these beliefs are realised."

This comes in the wake of a report last week that claimed Activision Blizzard CEO Robert Kotick not only knew about misconduct at the company, but had also been accused by such behaviour himself. The exec also allegedly hid these kinds of allegations from the board.

Kotick is reportedly unwilling to leave Activision Blizzard but will do so if the firm's problems are unable to be fixed.