Ukrainian Publishers Call on Government to Support the Book Industry

The Ukrainian Publishers Association (UVA) has sent an official appeal to Deputy Prime Minister for Humanitarian Policy and Minister of Culture of Ukraine, Tetiana Berezhna, outlining its proposals for supporting the publishing industry. This information was shared on Facebook by the head of the association, Artem Bidnenko, who emphasized that the current situation in publishing requires urgent and systemic solutions.

Bidnenko stressed that the publishing sector cannot afford to wait, stating, "The publishing sector needs systemic solutions right now." In its appeal, the association endorsed the government's initiative to create national content, considering this direction vital and promising for the development of Ukrainian culture. However, representatives of the UVA highlighted that the publishing industry already requires systemic support and prompt decisions.

Artem Bidnenko also announced that the association is ready to participate in developing tools to support the industry. This issue has been repeatedly discussed during meetings with representatives of the Ministry of Culture. Among the initiatives proposed by the UVA is a draft law aimed at supporting creative industries, which has already been submitted to the Ministry. The authors of the document hope it will help address systemic problems in the sector and establish clear operational rules for creative sectors.

Additionally, the association suggests updating the rules for accounting library funds, specifically removing outdated norms and simplifying bureaucratic procedures for libraries. According to UVA representatives, this will make libraries more accessible and efficient in their operations.

The appeal also addresses the need to expand the program for translating Ukrainian literature. The association believes this will enhance the presence of Ukrainian books in global markets and promote broader cultural dialogue, particularly with speakers of minority languages. The UVA considers this an important step towards popularizing Ukrainian culture beyond its borders.

Furthermore, the association advocates for the implementation of a technical regulation for the safety of children's printed products. This measure is intended to ensure the safety of books for children, which is a crucial aspect of public health policy. Safe books for children are not only a matter of quality but also of publishers' responsibility to society.

Another significant initiative presented by the UVA is the unblocking of compensation for bookstores regarding rent. This issue is critically important for maintaining bookstores as cultural spaces and access points to literature. In light of the economic challenges facing the book market, supporting bookstores has become exceptionally relevant.

In its appeal, the association emphasized that all these proposals aim at deregulation, simplifying procedures, and creating a favorable environment for the development of publishing in Ukraine. They align with the objectives outlined by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko during the introduction of the new head of the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine.

It is worth noting that in March of this year, at least six bookstores closed in various cities across Ukraine due to declining sales and a challenging situation in the book market. This underscores the urgent need for government action to support the publishing sector, which is currently facing difficult times.