FIAD members meet in Brussels to discuss key issues in European film distribution and policy

On 15 and 16 October 2024, the International Federation of Film Distributors Associations (FIAD) held a series of meetings in Brussels, bringing together its members for discussions on key issues facing the European film distribution sector. The two-day event featured internal roundtables, exchanges with industry stakeholders, and dialogues with EU policymakers, providing a valuable platform for strategic planning and sectoral insights.

A central theme of the meetings was the current state of theatrical distribution across Europe. FIAD members shared updates on national trends, including the latest challenges and opportunities for bringing films to the big screen. Discussions also focused on shaping FIAD’s advocacy priorities for the remainder of 2024, with members reaffirming their commitment to promoting theatrical distribution, enforcing copyright, preserving contractual freedom and the ability for rightsholders to deploy geo-blocking, and ensuring continued support for the Creative Europe MEDIA Programme.

Large-scale copyright infringement and its ties to organized-cross border crime were among the most urgent topics discussed, with FIAD members calling for enhanced action at both the EU and national levels to address the cybersecurity threats and economic damage caused by audiovisual piracy. Members called for stronger legal frameworks to protect European consumers from the cybersecurity risks associated with piracy. FIAD members highlighted the links between piracy and organised internationl crime, with operations go beyond the realm of copyright infringement, extending into illegal data harvesting and other forms of cybercrime.

The FIAD meetings in Brussels showcased the strength of the association as a dynamic and collaborative network of national film distributor associations, committed to addressing common challenges while promoting the interests of Europe’s film sector. By working closely with policymakers and industry stakeholders, FIAD is ensuring that its members' voices are heard and that the theatrical experience remains central to Europe's cultural and creative landscape.