Animar_BCN Concludes with Recommendations for Change

Animar_BCN, a political forum in which leaders in European animation discuss how to enhance the regional industry’s mechanisms, has concluded its second edition with a number of recommendations aimed at policymakers.

These recommendations include modifications to the AVMS Directive managing the audiovisual industry that would align more with the needs of the animation sector; streamlining the different existing funding mechanisms across Europe to facilitate co-productions and enhance financial stability; and more protection of IP by European authorities.

Regarding the AVMS Directive, the forum’s participants recommend that the requirements for investment in European content should include a mandatory consideration for the diversity of genres and age demographics within the European quota and investment obligations and should redefine certain legal definitions/terms, such as “audiovisual media service,” which should include platforms such as YouTube, and “European work,” which should be content originated and mostly owned by a European country within the EU.

They also suggest that the European Parliament should extend the exception of the geo-blocking rule for the audiovisual sector as the key framework that allows producers to finance and retain their original IPs. Another suggestion is to expand the European Cinematographic Convention to include France and Germany to avoid unbalanced relationships between state parties but also to third countries.

Other recommendations include establishing effective funding support for dubbing to enhance the distribution of European animation series; creating a meeting platform or event for production companies who wish to scale up and for equity investors interested in audiovisual content; define children and youth content as “difficult” productions to allow for higher public financing supports; and facilitate better access for low-capacity countries to international co-productions by resisting Creative Europe guidelines and improving minority co-production schemes.

“Animar_BCN has established itself as a pivotal political forum, playing a crucial role in addressing the complex challenges facing our industry,” said Philippe Alessandri, president of Animation in Europe. “It’s not just a meeting place; it’s a breeding ground for innovative ideas and realistic recommendations that are essential for the sustainability, future and vitality of European animation. This convention has become a catalyst for meaningful change, where thought leaders come together to shape the future of our industry.”

Marta Alonso, VP of ProAnimats, added, “The success of Animar_BCN can be attributed to its unique ability to centralize the collective interests of the European animation industry, transcending the usual territorial or specific concerns of individual actors. This congress has emerged as a beacon of unity, fostering a collaborative spirit that encourages a holistic approach. By bridging diverse perspectives, Animar_BCN has become a vital platform for shaping a cohesive and dynamic future for animation across Europe.”