The Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA) convened its Annual General Meeting with a clear focus on continuity, development, and the next phase of its work within Malta’s cultural and creative sectors. The meeting offered an opportunity to reflect on the past year while setting out priorities that respond to both ongoing challenges and emerging opportunities across the sector.

The past year marked a significant step forward for the Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA). Throughout 2025, MEIA advanced a wide-ranging reform agenda, strengthening its role as a proactive and representative voice within Malta’s creative sector.

A key focus of the year was sustained advocacy with public entities. MEIA actively contributed to national discussions through consultations, position papers, and public statements. This included its engagement in Envision 2050, accompanied by the release of an in-depth feedback report, as well as the Budget 2026 campaign, “Secure Creative Futures.” MEIA also launched a position paper addressing fair pay and working conditions for performing artists, continuing its efforts to push for more equitable and sustainable frameworks across the sector.

Alongside this, MEIA strengthened strategic collaborations at both national and international levels. Partnerships with unions and other stakeholders reinforced its local impact, while growing international relationships positioned Malta within broader cultural and creative conversations, including participation in international conventions and networks.

The year also saw MEIA contribute meaningfully to public discourse and sector development through initiatives such as Malta’s first Culture at Work Unconference, creating space for dialogue, exchange, and forward-looking thinking across the creative industries.

During the AGM, MEIA also confirmed the co-option of Francesco Grech to its Executive Committee in the role of Member Engagement Officer. His appointment brings an increased focus on strengthening communication with members and supporting more active participation within the organisation.

A key point of discussion during the meeting was the proposed restructuring of MEIA. The proposal aims to establish clearer roles, improve operational support, and create more effective pathways for member involvement. Central to this approach is a shift from static committees to more flexible working groups, allowing for a more responsive and targeted way of engaging with sector-specific priorities. The restructuring is intended to support sustainable participation, reduce pressure on volunteer capacity, and strengthen MEIA’s long-term advocacy work.

Looking ahead, MEIA outlined a series of priorities for 2026. These include continuing the internal restructuring process, launching a Fair Pay Campaign in collaboration with APS, expanding active membership, progressing agreements with government and MMPAC on affordable creative spaces, developing a Code of Practice for the Performing Arts, delivering workshops with international partners, and building stronger relationships with corporate stakeholders.

The AGM reflected a growing level of engagement across the sector and reaffirmed MEIA’s commitment to working collaboratively with its members and partners. As the organisation moves into the coming year, its focus remains on strengthening its structures, deepening its impact, and contributing to a more sustainable and supported creative ecosystem in Malta.