Despite numerous initiatives to promote women in the film industry, a recent analysis by the European Audiovisual Observatory shows that the proportion of women in European film production between 2020 and 2024 was only 27 %. With this slow progress, the targeted gender parity could not be achieved until 2047.

Slow progress despite commitment

The study analyses the gender distribution in six key areas of film production: directing, screenwriting, producing, cinematography, composing and editing. Although women have increasingly entered the industry in recent years, their share in these areas has remained consistently low. The low presence of women in technical positions such as cinematography (14 %) and composition (13 %) is particularly striking.

Causes of the unequal distribution

The analysis identifies several factors that contribute to the unequal distribution:

• A low proportion of women in the active skilled labour population.

• Fewer allocations for active female professionals.

• More frequent collaboration with other professionals, such as scriptwriters.

Despite these challenges, numerous initiatives and networks are committed to supporting women in the film industry and making them more visible.

Forecast: Parity not until 2047

The study predicts that with this slow progress, gender parity in European film production could not be achieved until 2047. This realisation highlights the need to break down existing barriers and take targeted measures to promote a balanced representation of women in the film industry.

Conclusion

Although progress has been made, gender parity in European film production remains a long-term goal. Joint efforts by institutions, production companies and professionals are still needed to ensure equal participation of women in all areas of film production.