French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for authors and publishers, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression and defending pluralism in literature. During a visit to the Paris book fair, Macron praised established publishing houses such as Gallimard and Grasset, highlighting the role they play in preserving literary heritage and fostering the creativity of writers. Macron also acknowledged the recent protest by 170 authors who refused to publish new books with Grasset in solidarity with editor Olivier Nora.
In response to the authors’ protest, which was triggered by Nora’s dismissal after 26 years, Macron indicated that the idea of a conscience clause for authors should be considered. The authors expressed concern over what they perceived as a threat to editorial independence at Grasset. The controversy unfolded as the Paris Book Fair kicked off at the Grand Palais, with 450 exhibitors and 1,800 authors participating, although major publishing houses like Grasset, a subsidiary of Hachette, were notably absent due to the ongoing dispute. Hachette, controlled by conservative billionaire Vincent Bolloré, holds a dominant position in the French publishing industry.
