Diversity & inclusion in audiovisual workplaces

In 2018-2020 the European social partners in the audiovisual sector ran a project assessing progress in the field of gender equality. This project was a follow up action to the adoption of a Framework of Actions (FoA) on Gender Equality in 2011. To assess progress, the project implemented a study that included desk research, an online survey, phone interviews and study visits in different EU countries. The research, while focusing on the representation of women in the sector and on correcting gender inequalities, also looked at the broader challenges of diversity, discrimination, and inclusion.

To pursue and deepen those conversations the European social partners launched in 2022, with the support of the European Union, a 2-year project in the context of which four roundtables will be organised. The overall objective of the project is to improve the capacity of the industry to implement diversity policies. The roundtables look at clarifying concepts, highlighting practices and experiences, and at inspiring future actions. The roundtables will also feed into European social dialogue which should lead, in 2024, to the adoption of a Framework of Actions.

The first roundtable was held online on 7 February 203. It looked at better understanding what we mean when we speak of diversity and inclusion in the audiovisual sector.

What are the different dimensions of the terms, and are they understood in the same way in different national contexts? Why do diversity and inclusion matter for the European audiovisual sector, and what actions and strategies have already been put in place across Europe?

Two speakers helped navigate those complex issues: Marcus Ryder, Head of External Consultancies at the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity, UK; and Agnès Saal, Senior Official for equality, diversity, and prevention of discrimination at the Ministry of Culture, France. The discussion was moderated by Francesca Scott, Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the European Broadcasting Union.

The recording of the online roundtable with subtitles in English and French is available for replay.

A second roundtable took place in Paris, France, on Friday 2 June 2023. The meeting was hosted by the French film school, La Fémis. After an introduction to intersectionality, it focused on the building blocks of a diversity and inclusion strategy, as well as on opening pathways to the sector.

Check out the summaries of the two roundtables and for a list of resources collected during or in preparation of the meetings.

The next meeting will be organised online in winter 2023.

This project is possible thanks to the financial support of the European Union.