Literary translations and distribution of literature

Themes and priorities

·      strengthening the transnational circulation and diversity of European literary works;

·      to encourage the translation and promotion of works from lesser-used languages in order to increase their penetration to larger markets in Europe and beyond;

·      reaching new audiences of European literary works in Europe and beyond;

·      strengthening the competitiveness of the book sector by fostering cooperation in the value chain.

The principle of fair remuneration of writers and translators should be respected in line with the report of the Expert Group on Multilingualism and Translation of the EU Member States entitled 'Translators on the Cover' set up by the Council of Europe under the open method of coordination.

Given the exceptional circumstances in Europe, projects aimed at providing Ukrainian refugees and displaced people with European or Ukrainian books in Ukrainian are encouraged. In this context, the printing, distribution and promotion of European or Ukrainian works of Ukrainian fiction are eligible. NB! However, projects should meet the general eligibility conditions and include at least 5 translations.

Activities that can be funded

Translating, promoting and distributing works of fiction, as well as activities to promote the sale of translation rights in Europe and beyond.

The planned activities should be grouped in part B of the application form into a single work package (i.e. the main sections of the project). Each work package must have a corresponding list of activities, results, milestones and critical risks.

Expected impact

The measure supports around 40 projects carried out by a single entity (single beneficiary) or a grouping of organisations (several beneficiaries).

Each project must be based on a sound editing and promotion strategy, including at least five eligible packages of works of fiction, translated into the appropriate languages and languages, and must include the following elements:

·      the proposed package will contribute to the diversity of literature in the country (or countries) of destination by including works of fiction from under-represented countries, in particular works written in lesser-used languages,

·      the dissemination strategy ensures wide and easy access to works for the general public,

·      advertising strategy contributes to an increase and renewal of the audience,

·      the project encourages cooperation between authors, translators, publishers, distributors, booksellers, libraries, festivals, literary events, etc.,

·      the project helps to raise the profile of translators and adheres to the principle of fair remuneration,

·      the project addresses the cross-cutting challenges of Creative Europe and the priorities of the 2023 Culture programme

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