ViacomCBS “No Diversity, No Commission” Policy Will Withhold Filmmaking Budgets In 180 Countries If Diversity Guidelines Are Not Met

Back in July ViacomCBS launched an initiative to promote diversity both on and off screen. Now, they have expanded the effort to 180 countries. 

“ViacomCBS Networks International creates and distributes content to audiences all over the world. This approach will ensure that we are both reflecting our audience, as well as elevating new diverse creative voices” ViacomCBS Networks International CEO David Lynn said before adding “Change requires thorough research, careful planning, and immense care, and we’re looking forward to creating impactful, sustainable change through the power of our networks, partnerships, platforms and brands.”

The “no diversity, no commission” policy will not allow budgets to be approved for production companies unless diversity guidelines are met. As part of their effort, 25% of ViacomCBS International Studios’ budget in Latin America will go towards the development of projects by creators that fall within the realm of Black Indigenous People of Color.

Elsewhere in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia, 30% of ViacomCBS Networks International’s 2021 budget will be allocated to the production of films centered around underrepresented matters.  

This is just the latest effort by ViacomCBS to diversify its filmmaking. Back in September, they announced the First Time Directors program that will pair women filmmakers and filmmakers of color to producers such as Idris Elba and Angela Bassett to create 50 made-for-television films.