What's Happening?
Disney, along with other major television companies such as Channel 4, Amazon Prime Video, and Fremantle, has declined to pay annual fees to the UK's Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA). CIISA was established to address bullying and harassment complaints within the creative industry. Despite initial support from several organizations, including the BBC and ITV, CIISA is facing financial uncertainty as it relies on voluntary contributions to sustain its operations. The reluctance of these companies to fund CIISA raises questions about their commitment to industry-wide standards for misconduct prevention.
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Why It's Important?
The refusal of major companies like Disney to financially support CIISA could undermine efforts to establish a robust system for handling misconduct complaints in the creative industry. This decision may impact freelancers and workers who rely on CIISA for protection against harassment and bullying. The lack of funding could also affect the reputation of these companies, as they may be perceived as not prioritizing safe working environments. The situation highlights the challenges of maintaining voluntary funding models for industry standards and the potential need for mandatory contributions.
What's Next?
CIISA plans to publish a list of its funding partners, which will indirectly reveal companies that are not contributing. This move aims to increase transparency and encourage more organizations to support CIISA financially. Additionally, CIISA is in discussions with the UK government about introducing a mandatory levy or making funding contributions a condition for accessing tax breaks. These measures could ensure more consistent financial support for CIISA and help it fulfill its mission of providing a safe environment in the creative industry.
