The European Commission has launched a public consultation on a possible future global programme for the audiovisual industries, including film.

The aim is to develop a new programme, 'MEDIA MUNDIS', that will represent a commitment to effective multilateralism and engage with global partners

The aim of the consultation is to gather information and opinions from all stakeholders that will shape any future programme.

The findings will provide input for an impact assessment process and the drafting of a Communication, which the Commission plans to adopt in November 2008.

The Commission is moving forward in the context of the globalisation of audiovisual services and in recognition of the increasing importance of the external dimension of audiovisual policy.

Officials feel that support programmes in the audiovisual sector do not currently reflect all the opportunities and challenges presented by globalisation, while national schemes tend to concentrate on support to production and national distribution.

Any potential initiative will build on the preparatory action programme - MEDIA International - which focuses on relations with audiovisual markets in third countries.

The consultation is intended to be a means to test further avenues for structuring and strengthening relations and networks between EU and third countries' professionals in the audiovisual sector for mutual benefit.

A budget of Euro 2 million for 'Media International' was approved by the European Parliament in December 2007 and a call for proposals launched in April 2008.

The consultation will be carried out online and deadline for submissions is 15 June 2008.

The online questionnaire can be found at http://ec.europa.eu/yourvoice/ipm/forms/dispatch'form=MEDIAmundus.

Topics