The discussion, “How to Save, Stabilize and Develop the Book Industry,” came at a particularly difficult moment for Ukrainian publishers. Following Russian attacks on publishers’ warehouses this summer, more than 8 million books were burned and destroyed, representing not only an enormous financial loss but also a profound moral blow to a sector that plays such an important role in preserving culture, knowledge, and identity.
On the occasion, Jobava highlighted the importance of international solidarity with Ukrainian publishers, booksellers and other professionals across the sector: “Solidarity must go beyond words — we need to work together to identify practical, effective and sustainable ways to support publishers, booksellers and the wider publishing ecosystem in war.”
The conversation brought together Ukrainian and international voices to discuss crisis response and solidarity, advocacy and access to international funding, support for publishers and bookseller networks, and the importance of ensuring continuity throughout the sector.
Moderated by Anastasiya Platonova, the discussion included Olena Kachurivska in Lviv, with FEP President Sonia Draga, Jessica Sänger, Chair of the IPA Freedom to Publish Committee, and FEP Director Anne Bergman joining online.
The Lviv Book Forum once again demonstrated Ukraine’s publishing community’s determination to keep publishing books, support readers, and keep culture and knowledge alive despite the immense challenges of war.
During the book forum, Jobava also met with Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
