2023-10-29 12:15:00
Sharjah, October 29 / WAM / Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Book Authority, stressed that those working in the publishing industry must remain committed and believe in the power of the written word and the role it plays in uniting or dividing the world. She said, “We must The publishing industry remains a catalyst for desired change, a driver of cultural exchange, and a platform for social transformation, and together we can build a future in which literature and the publishing sector continue to have a positive impact on individuals and societies around the world.”
She added that the publishing sector today stands at the gate of history, restoring the fundamental role it played over the centuries in a time in which misinformation, misleading information, fake news, and the culture of canceling others have spread, and in which artificial intelligence algorithms have dominated the digital space to create false bubbles. Publishers bear the responsibility of providing reliable content that has been authenticated. Verified and researched comprehensively, they have a unique opportunity to restore confidence in humanity and build a future in which truth triumphs over slander.
This came during her speech at the opening of the activities of the 13th session of the “Publishers Conference”, which was held yesterday at the Expo Center Sharjah, in the presence of His Excellency Ahmed bin Rakad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, and an elite group of book industry leaders and experts in the field of publishing from 106 countries around the world.
Speaking at the opening were Yeom Chul Ho, President of the Korean Publishers Association, Nuria Capote-Bral, CEO of Penguin Random House, Porter Andersen, Editor-in-Chief of Publishing Perspectives, and Ian Chapman, CEO of Simon & Shuster. And Joe Henry, CEO of Bookbranch.
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said, “In a time when public opinion is forming and opinions are spreading very quickly, it is important that publishers continue to provide a solid foundation of truth that enables individuals to build a correct understanding of the global issues that are complex for them. This is the publishers’ message on which we build our credibility with our readers and our communities, which We must protect it by all means under all directions and under all circumstances.”
She said, “In order to be able to fulfill our pledge, the publishing industry must adapt to the great and rapid changes that our world is witnessing. We stand at a crossroads between the traditional and the innovative, and we must find our path in this turbulent landscape. Embracing innovation is one of the most prominent ways in which Through it we can keep up with this constant change.”
With Korea being celebrated as the guest of honor at this year’s Sharjah International Book Fair, Yeom Chul Ho, President of the Korean Publishers Association, shared his views on the Korean publishing scene and the most important challenges and opportunities it faces. He said, “It is a great pride for Korea to be present today in this conference.” Where we can discuss opportunities and the most important systems and programs for the publishing market in Korea with attendees from different parts of the world. We have recently witnessed many achievements and transformations in the publishing industry, which opens up wide horizons of possibilities and cooperation with all parties concerned.”
He added that the Korean market is characterized by being sustainable and depends on employing advanced technologies, which in turn helps to create a significant positive impact. We have seen this through the great spread of digital books. Also, through artificial intelligence, we can fill the gaps between publishers and the publishing sector, preserve information, and innovate new systems. Especially so.
For her part, Noria Capote Prall, CEO of Penguin Random House Group, participated in a discussion with Porter Andersen, Editor-in-Chief of Publishing Perspective magazine, where the discussion touched on the most prominent challenges facing the global publishing market, specifically those related to technology and artificial intelligence.
Baral said, “Everyone realizes that artificial intelligence has its expected impact on the publishing market, but it is still too early to understand the nature of this impact. What is important in this context is that this technology will provide great opportunities and potential at many levels, and will play a role in empowering the human element and enhancing human intelligence and creativity.” It is the main axis in the sector.”
She pointed out that the Penguin Randomhouse group is spread across 9 countries around the world, embraces thousands of authors, and sells millions of books annually.
In her speech, she also touched on the challenges facing the publishing market in Spain, and addressed the importance of enhancing the presence of reading and books among children and young people, stressing their commitment to providing inspiring and attractive content to these groups.
The conference included a variety of discussion meetings, each of which dealt with specific topics, including the dynamics of different regions such as the countries of East Asia, in addition to providing a comprehensive vision regarding the United States. The meetings also shed light on the development of the Korean book scene, reviewed strategies for interaction with the Arab world, and developments. The book landscape in both India and the African continent, as well as the Japanese publishing market. Discussions included assessing the global library market and exploring innovation in publishing as well as the role of artificial intelligence, augmented reality and print on demand in the future of the publishing sector.
The meetings explored types and formats of publishing, including graphic novels and audiobooks for children, and witnessed discussions regarding translating books for adults and children, converting works of fiction into cinematic films, concluding deals, signing contracts, and digital business models. They also discussed global standards for the book industry, mechanisms and access to markets. New, common processes for cross-border publishing, social media strategies, the use of artificial intelligence in publishing, and other issues of interest to publishers and those working in the book industry.
The discussion meetings stopped at the “Publish Here” initiative, where they reviewed the leadership role of women, building successful publishing companies, consolidating justice and equal opportunities, and enhancing joint work in the publishing system.
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