Europe Strengthens Policy Framework for Animation Sector

European leaders meet in Barcelona to talk about animation policy, co-production development and regulatory measures that could shape the future of the industry.

Animar, the main animation policy think tank in Europe, ended its fourth edition in Barcelona, stating a stronger strategic vision of the animation ecosystem on this continent by its leaders in industry, regulators and policy formulation. The two-day event, organized by Animation in Europe, saw 52 professionals in 15 countries gathering together to discuss regulation, co-production, and long-term competitiveness of the industry.

Diana Riba, the new vice chair of the CULT committee in the European Parliament, welcomed the sessions and emphasized the role of animation as a cultural and pedagogical medium in shaping the identity of young audiences. Working groups assessed the role of updated AVMS directives in better serving European content as well, suggesting stiffer quotas of streamers, extended aspects of inclusion of video-sharing platforms, and openness of algorithms and screen data.

The second cohort aimed at increasing the production frameworks and encouraged people to support independent creators and increase audiovisual productions' financial visibility in the emerging AgoraEU Program.

The producer-oriented panels of the Anima Mundi scholarly program provided additional enlightenment on the market issues, particularly the necessity of speaking more about investing in children's content as a way to help the European cultural identity.

The main theme presented by animation in Europe executives was that teamwork is the best asset that the sector has. They stated that concerted action is needed to achieve diversity and proper regulation and to go along with stronger partnerships globally.

The event has renewed the focus on animation as an essential industrial area that demands ongoing regulatory attention and investment harmonization in preparation for Europe's 2026 policy roadmap.