What's Happening?
Gvantsa Jobava, president of the International Publishers Association (IPA), is leading efforts to address challenges to democratic values in the publishing industry. At the Frankfurt Book Fair, Jobava announced several initiatives aimed at promoting
freedom of expression and gender equality. These include the launch of the Freedom of Expression Defenders Award, a partnership with the UN Women’s Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, and continued advocacy on AI copyright issues. The new award will recognize organizations that systematically protect democratic values, expanding the scope beyond individual publishers. Applications for the award will open in January, with the first winner announced at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2026.
Why It's Important?
These initiatives underscore the critical role of publishers in safeguarding democratic values and free expression. By recognizing organizations that defend these principles, the IPA aims to foster a more resilient publishing environment. The partnership with UN Women highlights the need for gender equality in the industry, addressing the underrepresentation of women in senior positions. Additionally, the focus on AI copyright issues is crucial as technology companies increasingly use copyrighted materials without proper licensing. These efforts are vital for maintaining the integrity and purpose of the publishing profession, ensuring that it continues to serve society by defending fundamental values.
What's Next?
The IPA will open applications for the Freedom of Expression Defenders Award in January, with the first recipient announced at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2026. The partnership with UN Women will involve events promoting women's empowerment in publishing. The IPA will continue to advocate for awareness and action on AI copyright issues, particularly in smaller language markets. These initiatives are expected to encourage more organizations to engage seriously with freedom of expression and gender equality, potentially leading to significant changes in the industry.
Beyond the Headlines
The initiatives reflect a broader trend of integrating political and social values into business practices within the publishing industry. By prioritizing freedom of expression and gender equality, the IPA is setting a precedent for other sectors to follow. This approach may lead to long-term shifts in how businesses operate, emphasizing ethical considerations alongside profit margins. The focus on AI copyright issues also highlights the growing intersection between technology and publishing, raising important questions about intellectual property rights in the digital age.
