From Denmark, Michael Valentine (CEO, Danske Biografer) and Asger Bech Thomsen (CEO, Nordisk Film Biografer) took part in a series of meetings with policymakers to share insights into the current landscape for Danish and European cinemas. Throughout the two days, the delegation met with MEPs from across the political spectrum, Danish Permanent Representation as well as representatives from the European Commission.
Discussions focused on the cultural, social and economic importance of cinemas in Denmark and the wider EU. Danish representatives underlined the central role of cinemas as community hubs and drivers of local culture, highlighting recent trends in admissions, the continued strength of local content, and the contribution of the sector to jobs, investment and the wider creative economy.
Participants emphasised a number of key policy areas crucial for the future of the sector, including the importance of safeguarding theatrical exclusivity, upholding the territoriality of copyright, and strengthening EU support for film and audiovisual works under the proposed MEDIA+ programme. The meetings also touched on issues such as the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) and the importance of maintaining a robust framework to fight piracy.
The first day concluded with a private screening of the Danish film Det Nye År (To New Beginnings) at UGC De Brouckère, co-hosted by UNIC and Nordisk Film. Bringing together more than 90 policymakers and stakeholders.