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The second edition of the political forum Animar_BCN held from 22 to 24 November in Barcelona, Spain expanded both in terms of the number of experts, over 80, and the number of countries represented, totalling 25, encompassing public bodies, broadcasters, production representatives and pan-European institutions.
Over three days of debates at Animar_BCN, key figures in the animation value chain, including organisations such as Animation in Europe and CEE Animation, engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing the European animation industry’s operational mechanisms. This convergence comprised government officials, educational leaders, industry veterans, and broadcasters.
This forum was a fertile ground for collaborative thinking, which led to tangible recommendations such as the need for stronger funding strategies across Europe, the development of compatible standards for co-productions, a stronger emphasis on audience building, the retention of talent and original IP by independent producers.
Animation in Europe president Philippe Alessandri said, “Animar_BCN has established itself as a pivotal political forum, playing a crucial role in addressing the complex challenges facing our industry. It’s not just a meeting place; it’s a breeding ground for innovative ideas and realistic recommendations which 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.”
ProAnimats vice president Marta Alonso added, “The success of Animar_BCN can be attributed to its unique ability to centralise 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.”
At Animar_BCN, five critical subjects with one think tank each were at the forefront of discussions, each pivotal to the future of European animation:
The think tanks reached a series of conclusions following discussions which led to a set of concrete recommended actions aimed at policy makers:
Animation in Europe will report at MIFA Annecy, in June 2024, on the first steps taken in response to these recommendations.