Full Breakdown
Council of Europe to Sign Landmark Convention for Series Co-Productions
3/23/2026, 9:02:29 PM
Introduction to the Convention
The Council of Europe is set to sign the "Council of Europe Convention on the Co-production of Audiovisual Works in the form of series" on March 26, 2026, during the Series Mania festival in Lille, France. This convention represents the first international legal framework dedicated specifically to the independent co-production of television and streaming series. It aims to enhance cross-border cooperation among member states and streamline administrative procedures for independent producers.
Objectives and Implications
The convention is designed to support independent producers by establishing clear co-production rules that mirror existing regulations for cinema. It seeks to foster cultural cooperation, enhance transparency, and promote high-quality audiovisual works as public goods that contribute to linguistic diversity and democratic participation. The Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset emphasized the importance of series as a cultural form that transcends borders, stating, “With this convention, we are opening a new international framework to support independent producers and strengthen cooperation.”
Context of Series Mania
The signing ceremony will coincide with the Series Mania festival, which serves as a significant platform for industry professionals to discuss the future of the audiovisual sector. Laurence Herszberg, founder and general director of Series Mania, noted that the convention is a major advancement for the industry, facilitating the delivery of diverse series to audiences across Europe and beyond.
Trends in the Series Industry
Francesco Capurro, director of the Series Mania Forum, highlighted the growing need for professionals to seek new financing avenues amid a slight contraction in the market. The forum has attracted around 400 projects for its Co-Pro Pitching Sessions, indicating a robust interest in international collaboration. Capurro pointed out that while local productions thrive, there is also a rising demand for ambitious international projects, particularly as audiences become more receptive to series from various regions, including Asia and Latin America.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite the positive outlook, there are concerns regarding the impact of multiple platforms broadcasting the same content. Producers' associations are wary that this trend may limit financing opportunities for works funded by traditional broadcasters. The complexity of ensuring fair compensation and funding for creators in this evolving landscape remains a significant challenge.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The convention's ratification will depend on the approval of three member countries, after which it will establish a stable foundation for co-productions across Europe. As the audiovisual landscape continues to evolve, the Council of Europe's initiative aims to enhance cooperation and support for independent creators, ultimately enriching the cultural fabric of Europe.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Series are one of the defining cultural forms of our time, reaching audiences across borders and bringing different perspectives into our homes,” — Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe
- “This Convention marks a major step forward for the industry. It will help bring more diverse series to audiences across Europe and beyond, a mission that has always been at the heart of Series Mania.” — Laurence Herszberg, Founder and General Director of Series Mania
