Italy has joined eight other European nations in signing a landmark convention aimed at streamlining the production of television series and streaming content. The agreement, formally signed at Series Mania in Lille, France, establishes the first international legal framework dedicated to independent series co-productions, promising to simplify collaborations and foster a more unified European audiovisual landscape. This move comes as the demand for high-quality, internationally appealing television continues to surge, driven by the growth of streaming platforms and a desire for diverse storytelling.
The Council of Europe’s Convention on the Co-production of Audiovisual Works in the Form of Series seeks to address the complexities that often arise when productions span multiple countries. Currently, navigating differing national regulations, funding mechanisms and tax incentives can be a significant hurdle for co-producers. The convention aims to create a more predictable and transparent environment, encouraging greater investment and creative exchange. The core principle is to establish a common set of rules governing these collaborations, reducing administrative burdens and fostering a level playing field for producers across signatory nations.
Nine Nations at the Forefront of European TV Collaboration
Alongside Italy, the founding signatories include France, Georgia, Greece, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, Poland, and Portugal. The signing ceremony was attended by Alain Berset, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, who emphasized the importance of the convention for the future of European television. He urged other nations to join the agreement, highlighting its potential to strengthen the continent’s cultural influence and economic competitiveness in the global entertainment market.
According to the Council of Europe, the convention will define clear and shared rules for cooperation between countries, covering aspects such as eligibility for co-production status, financial contributions, and the distribution of rights. This standardization is expected to unlock new opportunities for independent producers, allowing them to access wider markets and secure funding more easily. The initiative is particularly significant for smaller nations with limited resources, as it provides a pathway to participate in larger, more ambitious projects.
What’s Needed for the Convention to Capture Effect
While the signing represents a crucial step forward, the convention won’t officially come into force until it’s ratified by at least three countries, with a minimum of two being member states of the Council of Europe. This ratification process involves each signatory nation formally approving the agreement through its own domestic legal procedures. The timeline for ratification varies by country, but officials are optimistic that the threshold will be met within the next year.
The Council of Europe has been actively promoting the convention across its 46 member states, emphasizing the benefits of a harmonized approach to series co-production. Discussions are underway with several other countries, and further signings are anticipated in the coming months. The organization believes that widespread adoption of the convention will not only boost the European television industry but also promote cultural diversity and understanding.
Impact on Independent Producers and Streaming Services
The convention is expected to have a particularly positive impact on independent production companies, which often face greater challenges in securing funding and distribution compared to larger studios. By simplifying the co-production process, the agreement will enable these companies to collaborate more effectively with partners from other countries, expanding their reach and increasing their creative potential.
Streaming services, which have become major players in the television landscape, are also likely to benefit from the convention. The increased availability of co-produced content will provide them with a wider range of programming options, catering to diverse audiences and strengthening their competitive position. The convention could also encourage streaming platforms to invest more in European productions, recognizing the benefits of a more streamlined and predictable regulatory environment.
The rise of streaming has fundamentally altered the television industry, creating both opportunities and challenges for European producers. As noted in a recent report by Ampere Analysis, European TV co-productions are already on the rise, driven by the demand for local content and the need to share production costs. This convention aims to accelerate that trend, fostering a more collaborative and innovative ecosystem.
The convention’s focus on series, rather than solely on films, reflects the growing importance of long-form storytelling in the current media landscape. Series allow for more complex narratives and character development, attracting dedicated audiences and generating sustained engagement. By specifically addressing the unique challenges of series co-production, the agreement is well-positioned to support the continued growth of this dynamic sector.
The next step in the process will be the formal ratification of the convention by individual member states. The Council of Europe will continue to monitor progress and provide support to countries as they navigate their domestic legal procedures. Further updates on the ratification process and the implementation of the convention will be available on the Council of Europe’s website.
This new framework for international television production promises a more collaborative and efficient future for European content creators. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on how this convention might impact the shows they watch and the stories they love.
