Despite setting a goal, BAFTA misses 50% women mark
What's the story
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has announced that it has met nearly all its membership diversity goals set in 2020. The targets included 20% from minority ethnic groups, 12% deaf, disabled and neurodivergent individuals, and 10% LGBTQ+ members. However, the organization is still short of its target of having 50% women members; currently, the figure stands at 43%.
Gender representation
BAFTA's new members since 2020 show gender diversity
Despite falling short of the overall target, BAFTA has seen a significant increase in female representation among its new members. Since 2020, 51% of all new members have identified as women. The organization has also begun reporting on socio-economic background in 2023, with 19% of current members coming from working-class backgrounds. Among these, 21% of all new members since 2020 identify as belonging to this group.
Future goals
BAFTA's future plans for increased diversity
BAFTA has set ambitious targets for its membership diversity by 2030. The organization aims to increase the percentage of deaf, disabled and neurodivergent members to 18% and attract 25% of new members from low socio-economic backgrounds. It also plans to focus on increasing representation of people of color in senior industry leader roles, women in the games sector, and craft roles where current representation is lower than 40%.
Ongoing efforts
BAFTA's commitment to diversity and inclusion
BAFTA Chair Sara Putt expressed pride in the progress made toward a diverse membership that reflects the talent and experiences of those working in film, games, and television. She acknowledged that systemic challenges still limit opportunities for disabled people and those from working-class backgrounds. Andrew Miller, BAFTA Board Trustee and Disability Advisory Group member, emphasized the importance of effort and commitment in achieving inclusion.