A parliamentary question from Valentina Palmisano of The Left raises the political stakes on supporting independent bookshops and reading across the EU, spotlighting stalled implementation of Italy's national pro-reading law and asking the European Commission how it intends to boost these cultural hubs vital for editorial diversity and social cohesion. This question engages stakeholders such as independent booksellers, cultural NGOs, EU cultural policymakers, and the reading public.
Palmisano's question (E-003646/2025) targets the Commission's role in ensuring Member States enact effective measures, specifically citing Italy’s Law No 15/2020 on reading promotion, and probes whether the EU can augment support through funding and initiatives.
The Commission's response, delivered by Mr Micallef, reiterates that EU cultural action promotes cooperation without harmonizing national policies per Article 167 TFEU. The Creative Europe program (2021-2027) is highlighted as the flagship initiative underpinning culture and literature sectors, with funding allocated via multinational calls supporting literary translations (over 500 books annually), European Authors Day, and projects like RISE Plus, which emerges as a strategic effort to strengthen European booksellers. Other EU programs such as Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe also contribute.
This response signals continued EU commitment to editorial pluralism and freedom of expression but does not propose concrete new measures, numerical targets, or direct enforcement actions. The emphasis is on incentives and collaborative cultural development rather than binding obligations.
For independent booksellers, these EU-backed programs can offer moderate benefits by increasing visibility and cross-border cooperation; however, the absence of enforceable mechanisms may limit impact. Cultural NGOs may view EU programs positively but could press for stronger action. National authorities retain full responsibility for applying such laws, and the EU taxpayer indirectly supports these efforts through funding allocations.
The Commission is expected to provide detailed replies within weeks, which will clarify future directions regarding cultural support policies in the EU.