What's Happening?
Gvantsa Jobava, the president of the International Publishers Association (IPA), is addressing the challenges faced by publishers in maintaining democratic values amidst increasing global hostility. Speaking ahead of the Frankfurt Book Fair, Jobava emphasized
the importance of speaking up against unfair practices, even if they do not directly affect one's own interests. She is spearheading initiatives to promote freedom of expression, including the launch of the Freedom of Expression Defenders Award, a partnership with UN Women’s Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, and advocacy on AI copyright issues. The new award aims to recognize organizations that systematically protect democratic values, expanding the scope beyond individual publishers.
Why It's Important?
The initiatives led by Jobava highlight the critical role publishers play in safeguarding democratic values and freedom of expression. By recognizing organizations that defend these principles, the IPA is encouraging a broader engagement with freedom issues, which is essential in a world where democratic backsliding is becoming more common. The partnership with UN Women also underscores the need for gender equality in the publishing industry, addressing the lack of women in senior positions. Furthermore, the focus on AI copyright issues is crucial as technology companies increasingly use copyrighted materials without proper licensing, posing a threat to intellectual property rights.
What's Next?
Applications for the Freedom of Expression Defenders Award will open in January, with the first winner announced at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2026. This initiative is expected to foster greater collaboration among organizations dedicated to protecting democratic values. The partnership with UN Women will likely lead to more events and discussions on gender equality in publishing, potentially influencing industry standards. Additionally, the IPA's continued advocacy on AI copyright issues may prompt more publishers to address the challenges posed by AI technologies, ensuring fair compensation for the use of copyrighted works.
Beyond the Headlines
Jobava's leadership reflects a broader trend of integrating political and social values into business practices within the publishing industry. Her emphasis on honesty and integrity highlights the ethical dimensions of publishing, suggesting that the industry must balance profit motives with societal responsibilities. This approach could lead to long-term shifts in how publishers operate, prioritizing transparency and accountability in their dealings.
