Hungarian Publishing House Libri Acquired by Matyáš Korvín University, Authors Express Concerns over Freedom of Literary Creation
In a significant development, the largest Hungarian publishing house, Libri, and its associated bookstore network have been acquired by Matyáš Korvín private university, which has close ties to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. This acquisition has raised concerns among mainstream authors who fear the threat to the freedom of literary creation. The Guardian newspaper has reported on this issue.
One of the popular writers, Éva Péterfyová-Nováková, has announced her departure from the publisher, stating that it is highly likely that the governing party Fidesz will utilize Libri for its own ideological and political purposes. This move has sparked a debate about the potential influence of the government on the book industry, similar to its control over the media market and universities.
Libri Group, which includes the publishing house and several smaller brands, as well as a network of 57 bookstores, recently announced the sale of a 98.5 percent stake to Matyáš Korvín University. The university’s supervisory board is headed by Balázs Orbán, the head of the prime minister’s political cabinet, and it receives substantial funding directly from the government for its operations. Libri publishes approximately one-fifth of all books in Hungary, and its network of bookstores controls about half of the book market.
While the representatives of the publishing house assure readers that the change in ownership will not affect them, authors and editors express concerns that the government’s acquisition could be used to manipulate the book industry, similar to its control over other sectors.
Éva Péterfyová-Nováková, who has decided to leave Libri, stated, “This publishing house is something like a family for me, and I don’t want to be part of a family whose head is Fidesz. I’m sure that what happened to universities, theaters, and former independent news sites like Index and Origo will happen here. They will take full control and use Libri for their own ideological and political purposes. It’s only a matter of time.”
Another former editor-in-chief, Mátyás Dunajcsik, who resides in Berlin, has also decided not to publish his books at Libri anymore. He claims that Matyáš Korvín University actively spreads Russian war propaganda, misogyny, xenophobia, homophobia, and transphobia. According to Dunajcsik, every book published by Libri will now contribute to funding this school of thought.
The acquisition of Libri by Matyáš Korvín University has raised concerns about the potential threat to the freedom of literary creation in Hungary. As authors and editors voice their apprehensions, the future of the publishing house and its impact on the country’s literary landscape remain uncertain.
What are the implications of the government’s increasing control over the book industry in Hungary for the independence and diversity of the literary scene
Use and a network of 51 bookshops across Hungary, was acquired by Matyáš Korvín University in a deal that has raised concerns among authors and literary figures. Matyáš Korvín University, a private institution with ties to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government, has prompted fears that the freedom of literary creation may be compromised.
One of the prominent writers, Éva Péterfyová-Nováková, has already announced her departure from Libri, citing concerns that the governing party Fidesz will exploit the publishing house for its own ideological and political purposes. Péterfyová-Nováková’s decision has ignited a larger debate about the potential influence of the government on the book industry, similar to its control over the media and universities.
The acquisition by Matyáš Korvín University has raised concerns over the independence and integrity of the publishing house. Authors worry that their works may be censored or manipulated to align with the government’s agenda, jeopardizing their creative freedom. This development is seen as part of a wider trend of increasing government control over different sectors, including the arts and culture.
The Guardian newspaper reported on the acquisition, highlighting the concerns expressed by authors and the potential implications for the literary landscape in Hungary. As one of the largest publishing houses in the country, Libri’s influence on the book market is significant, making this acquisition a matter of great importance for the literary community.
Critics argue that this move further consolidates the government’s control over various institutions and raises doubts about the future of an independent and diverse literary scene in Hungary. The government’s increasing influence over the media and education has already sparked concerns about democratic erosion and limits on freedom of expression, and the acquisition of Libri by Matyáš Korvín University only adds to these apprehensions.
The effects of this acquisition on the publishing industry and literary community in Hungary are yet to be fully seen. However, with authors voicing their concerns and media attention on the issue, the debate over the freedom of literary creation and the government’s influence in this sector is likely to continue.
This alarming development raises serious concerns about the potential influence of political interests on Hungary’s publishing industry. The exodus of authors further highlights the threat to artistic freedom and diversity of thought in the country. Urgent steps are needed to ensure independent voices continue to thrive in Hungary’s literary landscape.
This article highlights a concerning development within the Hungarian publishing industry. The takeover of the largest publishing house by a school closely associated with Orbán raises questions about potential implications for freedom of expression and independent voices. The departure of authors is worrisome, as it signifies a loss of diverse perspectives and creativity.