The International Authors Forum (IAF) is pleased to hear that the Argentinian government’s proposed changes in the law, which threatened to seriously undermine the editorial and cultural sector of the country, were rejected by the National Congress.
The proposed “Ley Omnibus” (Omnibus Law) raised significant concerns within the editorial and cultural sectors as the changes included:
- The repeal of the Law for the Defense of Book Activity (in force since 2001), which in Argentina has been vital for the maintenance of bookstores as promoters of reading and the book sector. Authors would have been severely impacted by the repeal of this law that would have made it more difficult for them to establish transparent and fair contacts with publishers.
- Cuts to the National Commission of Popular Libraries (CONABIP) which has 2,000 libraries located in 1,189 cities, small towns and rural areas throughout Argentina, and which currently provides services essential for the promotion of reading and access to books.
- Cuts to other cultural institutions such as the National Institute of Music and Visual Arts and National Institute of Theatre that would have compromised the further development and diversity of Argentinian music, visual arts, and theatre.
IAF members, the Association of Illustrators of Argentina (ADA), the Association of Argentinian Visual Artists (SAVA), the Union of Writers in Argentina and Argentine Association of Translators and Interpreters (AATI) have been speaking out against these measures that would limit freedom of expression for Argentinians. Alongside writers and artists representatives and other stakeholders in the editorial and cultural sectors, they have taken social actions, such as open statements and peaceful demonstration, to publicly express their concerns around these proposals. Marcelo Guerrieri, President of the Union of Writers in Argentina, stated that the national social mobilisation played a vital role in influencing the ultimate choice made by the National Congress.
We are aware that the rejection of the proposed changes represents a significant victory for creators, as we believe that governments must promote the development of an inclusive and vibrant culture in their countries, as well as recognise the important role that the creative industry plays in society.
However, it is critical to continue to monitor the progress on a potential revision of the Ley Omnibus, since it may return with potential to harm the Argentine editorial and cultural sectors.
We will keep supporting our members in Argentina in their efforts to prevent changes that will hamper the cultural and creative industries of the country, harm the ability of authors and other creators to earn income from their work, and, ultimately, limit the freedom of expression of its people.
For further insights concerning the situation in Argentina, you can follow these links:
Association of Illustrators of Argentina