UNI Global Union (2021). Demanding Dignity Behind the Scenes: Ending Long Hours Culture in the Global Film and TV Industry
This report by UNI Global Union presents the findings of a 2021 international survey examining the working conditions of behind-the-scenes film and television production crews across 22 countries, representing over 150,000 workers. It reveals a global “long hours culture” characterized by exhausting schedules, inadequate rest, and widespread violations of labour standards. The report highlights several union-led victories in countries like the U.S., Sweden, and Germany, where collective bargaining has secured improved rest periods, higher pay, and better enforcement of agreements, while noting the persistent resistance to such reforms in many regions. Alongside this, it issues a set of global recommendations to promote sustainable practices, including recognition of collective bargaining rights, enforcement of fair contracts and pay, work-life balance policies, gender equality and diversity, safety protocols, and environmental sustainability in film and TV production.