“Although the video-clips centre around cartoonish characters, the storyline still portrays these characters as racialised persons through the use of specific skin colours and hair-textures, with the black character depicted in a negative way,” it said. 

Additionally, women and men are also portrayed in stereotypical gender roles within and outside the household.

“Whilst recognising that these stereotypical depictions might have been unintentional, the NCPE – as the national equality body established by CAP. 456 of Maltese laws – states that companies. are to ensure that published material is free from racist and sexist stereotypes to avoid reproducing prejudice and inequality in society,” it said.

“In view of their problematic portrayal of gender and race, the NCPE expects the video-clips in question to be withdrawn.”

Both Mapfre Malta and Malta Public Transport denied that the campaign contains racist implications.

“It is clear that the characters in this educational video series are crash test dummies, and the actors’ faces are painted in yellow and grey paint,” a spokesperson from Malta Public Transport emphasised.

“We had no intention to offend any race, religion, or association. The video was produced by popular actors Danusan and it was commissioned by Malta Public Transport who coordinates the campaign for us,” a spokesperson for Mapfre said.

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