Overview
- In a tribune published by L’Humanité, the signatories warn the event is “in danger of death” and call for rapid, profound reform that includes ousting 9eArt+.
- 9eArt+, which has run the festival since 2007, was reconfirmed after a contested tender but must work with the Cité internationale de la BD for editions starting in 2028.
- The ministry said the outlines of future editions remain unclear and it will take a definitive position after the current discussions conclude.
- Calls to boycott have surged on social media, with prominent names such as Pénélope Bagieu and Catherine Meurisse relaying them, and 2025 Grand Prix winner Anouk Ricard confirming she will not attend.
- The backlash follows a wider crisis over alleged commercial excesses, opaque management, and the firing of an employee after a 2024 rape complaint.