UPDATE: The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has just announced significant strides in its diversity membership metrics, revealing that it has achieved nearly all of its ambitious diversity targets set in 2020. As of 2025, BAFTA reports that 19.85% of its 14,000 members belong to minority ethnic groups, while 12.84% identify as Deaf, Disabled, or Neurodivergent, and 13.29% identify as LGB+.
However, the percentage of women in BAFTA’s membership currently stands at 43%, falling short of the target of 50%. Notably, since 2020, over half (51%) of the new members have been women, highlighting a positive trend in gender representation.
In 2023, BAFTA began reporting on the socio-economic backgrounds of its members, revealing that 19% come from working-class backgrounds, with 21% of new members since 2020 identifying in this group.
Looking ahead, BAFTA has set an ambitious target to increase its membership of Deaf, Disabled, and Neurodivergent individuals to 18% by 2030. The organization also aims to attract 25% of new members from low socio-economic backgrounds by the same year.
“I’m proud of the progress BAFTA has made in growing a diverse membership that reflects the breadth of talent and experiences of those working in film, games, and television today,” stated BAFTA Chair, Sara Putt. She acknowledged the ongoing systemic challenges that limit opportunities for underrepresented groups, particularly women in gaming and craft roles, and people of color in senior positions.
Reflecting on the importance of these developments, Andrew Miller, BAFTA Board Trustee and member of the Disability Advisory Group, emphasized the need for sustained effort in achieving inclusion.
“Inclusion doesn’t just happen, it takes effort, energy, and commitment,”
he said, commending BAFTA’s determination to enhance disability representation.
With 782 new full members joining this year alone, BAFTA continues to position itself as a leader in the film and television industry, advocating for significant changes in representation.
Stay tuned for further updates as BAFTA continues to push for equity and inclusion across film, games, and television, setting a benchmark for other organizations to follow.
