French Comic book Publishers Boycott Angoulême International Comics Festival Over association’s Role
Angoulême, France – A coalition of French comic book publishers, representing the Syndicat National de l’Édition de Bande Dessinée (SNE), has announced it will refuse to participate in the upcoming Angoulême International Comics Festival (FIBD) due to ongoing disputes with the festival’s governing association. The decision, made public November 10, stems from accusations that the association obstructed attempts to foster constructive dialog between artists and publishers.
The SNE’s rejection centers on what it deems “irresponsibility and obstructions” from the association,which they claim hampered efforts to improve collaboration within the industry. This move escalates a growing conflict over the festival’s direction and the association’s continued influence, raising concerns about the future of one of Europe’s moast meaningful comic book events. The boycott threatens to significantly diminish the festival’s scope and impact, perhaps affecting both industry professionals and the tens of thousands of fans who attend annually.
Delphine Groux, president of the association that owns the festival, responded to the criticism with a brief statement to France 3 New Aquitaine, emphasizing the need to “remain self-reliant” and “work together while keeping our values.” she also asserted that the Angoulême town hall is unable to organize the event independently.
Groux further stated that the association “still remains guarantor of the independence of the festival, with regard to commercial fields, political fields,” and reaffirmed the association’s primary goal: “the sustainability of the festival.”
The SNE’s decision follows a prior statement indicating their unwillingness to participate if “9e Art+,” a commercial entity linked to the festival, remains involved. The festival is scheduled to take place in January 2024.
