EXTENDED DEADLINE: Towards Fair Pay for Performing Artists
Following the launch of MEIA’s position paper Towards Fair Pay for Performing Artists in Malta in September, we have continued engaging with sector stakeholders on the proposed four-point action plan, which includes adopting fair payment principles, standardising payment models, piloting a sectoral rate card, and strengthening long-term advocacy for equitable working conditions.
Why does this matter?
Fair pay is essential for a sustainable performing arts sector. Research shows deep gaps in working conditions, low pay, and a lack of recognition for artistic labour. Before setting rates, we need to ensure artists are acknowledged, protected, and paid fairly.
- Adopt fair principles: Recognising all artistic work as legitimate labour, guaranteeing no pay below the National Minimum Wage, securing written contracts, and safeguarding artists’ rights to negotiate and report malpractice.
- Standardise payment models: Introducing clear and transparent models that allow consistency in negotiations while reflecting the diversity of artistic roles and contexts.
- Pilot a sectorial rate card: Through a member-led Fair Pay Working Group, beginning with the theatre sector, to establish transparent benchmarks for minimum payments and working conditions.
- Strengthen advocacy for fair pay: Driving sustained campaigns, collective agreements, and engagement with policymakers to embed fair pay as a sectoral standard and a condition for public funding.
To ensure that all artists, producers, organisations, and institutions have enough time to review the proposals and contribute their perspectives, MEIA is extending the public consultation deadline to Saturday, 23rd December.
Your feedback will support the work of the Fair Pay Working Group as it begins the process of piloting Malta’s first sectoral rate card, starting with the theatre sector.
The study is commissioned by MEIA to Culture Venture & supported by Arts Council Malta