Oscars fight back #OscarsSoWhite

The organisers of the Oscars have invited a record number of new members to vote in next year's Academy Awards, in response to criticism of a lack of diversity at this year's ceremony.

This year’s Oscars saw heavy criticism from the public regarding mainly the absence of non-white actors for the second consecutive year. The protests led to an unprecedented debate about racial equality in the film industry - characterised on social media by the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite. Several Hollywood stars also boycotted the awards ceremony in protest of the lack of diversity.

Nearly 700 people were invited to vote this year, with a focus on women and ethnic minorities.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences then agreed to a shake up of its membership - traditionally seen as old, white and male - to bring in more women and members of ethnic minorities.

According to a statement by the academy, the new invitees include actors John Boyega of Star Wars, Emma Watson of Harry Potter, Swedish Oscar winner Alicia Vikander and musician Mary J Blige.

The effort should reportedly shift the demographics from 75% male membership to 73%. White membership would also decrease from 92% to 89%.