It Is Time to Reform Malta’s Television Industry

23 Jun 2026 - Blog | Economy | Home | News | Politics | Professionals, Finance & Services | Professionals, Finance and Services | Sections | Technology | The Union

Martin Bonnici – Screen and Stage Sector Representative

Working in Malta’s television industry attracts many people because it offers visibility, recognition, and a certain element of glamour associated with productions and public events. However, behind this façade lies a reality that is far less appealing. Ongoing research indicates that, despite appearing strong on the surface, the industry is being built on working conditions that are not sustainable for its workforce.

One of the most alarming trends is the short lifespan of careers within the sector. For many, a career in television lasts less than five years before they are forced to seek opportunities elsewhere. This situation is directly linked to low wages, a lack of stability, and challenging working conditions. Discussions with professionals in the industry consistently highlight a common concern: significant uncertainty about the future.

While there has been clear investment in technical resources, leading to improvements in the quality of productions, the same cannot be said for investment in the people behind them. Actors are often expected to provide their own wardrobe, handle their own makeup and hairstyling, and cover expenses that should rightfully be borne by production companies. In some cases, even basic necessities such as drinking water on set are not provided.

The financial reality is even more concerning. Cases have been documented where actors receive as little as €40 for an episode that requires more than 20 hours of work. In other situations, professionals end up paying out of their own pockets to ensure that productions can continue, while receiving little or no compensation in return.

The situation is similar for those working behind the scenes. These are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a systemic problem. All of this is taking place within an industry valued at approximately €36.5 million annually. The issue is not a lack of money, but rather the lack of a fair distribution of resources.

Although there are companies that operate ethically, the absence of consistent regulation allows poor practices to persist. Without clear and enforceable standards, exploitation remains a reality for many workers.

It is time to reject the mentality of working “for exposure.” No industry can be sustainable if it depends on arbitrary wages or uncertain working conditions. Workers have the right to fair pay, a safe working environment, and respect for their profession.

Malta’s television industry stands at a critical crossroads. Immediate and substantial reform is needed. Producers must take responsibility for the financial risks of their productions and ensure that profits are not generated at the expense of workers. Professional standards, fair wages, and adequate working conditions are not optional—they are essential.

Ultimately, the strength of an industry should be measured not only by the quality of its output, but also by how it treats the people who make that output possible. Without concrete change, Malta risks losing valuable talent and weakening a creative sector with enormous potential.

The Professionals, Finance and Services Section within the General Workers’ Union (GWU) remains committed to supporting efforts that raise awareness about working conditions in Malta’s television industry and to advocating for meaningful improvements that benefit all workers in the sector.