This sectoral working paper outlines how technology has been the driver of change in the media and entertainment sector, in the habits of consumers, and in the labour market. The proliferation of new technologies has eliminated many traditional media and entertainment jobs, but there has been expanded consumption of media products worldwide and a growth in employment in new areas of media and entertainment. There have been significant changes in work organization – particularly in content creation. This has fuelled demands for flexible work and for people who can provide creative input across a range of media.

This report finds that changes in employment, contractual arrangements and job content mean that training must meet the needs of a new and evolving sector – not only providing skill sets that match the requirements of the industry, but also preparing new workers for entry into a transformed media and entertainment workplace. The report highlights the need for more research on labour market conditions in media and entertainment. It concludes with recommendations on promoting social dialogue, creativity and respect for decent work in the media and entertainment sector.