Is it possible to measure the pulse of Europe’s audiovisual heart? Here at the European Audiovisual Observatory, you can. This public service organization is located in Strasbourg. It functions as a vital organ for understanding the continent’s media landscape.
Established in 1992, the European Audiovisual Observatory is part of the Council of Europe. Its mission is simple. It collects and distributes information about the audiovisual industries in Europe. This includes film, television, radio, video, Video On Demand, and Catch-up TV.
The goal of the European Audiovisual Observatory is greater transparency. They strive for a clearer understanding. Their focus lies on how the audiovisual industries in Europe function. They consider both the economic and legal aspects.
The European Audiovisual Observatory provides information on various audiovisual markets in Europe. It also covers their financing. The legal issues affecting different sectors of the audiovisual industry are also analyzed and reported on.
The headquarters of the European Audiovisual Observatory are located in the Villa Schutzenberger. This beautiful building adds a touch of elegance to the serious work conducted within. The city of Strasbourg provides the location.
The Observatory’s work is funded in several ways. Direct contributions come from its member states and the European Union. The European Commission represents the EU. Revenue from the sale of products and services also contributes.
The European Audiovisual Observatory covers a wide range of fields. These fields are film, broadcasting, home video, on-demand audiovisual services, and public policy. All of this relates to the audiovisual sector.
The information provided by the European Audiovisual Observatory is available in various forms. You can find it in print and electronic publications. Free online databases are also available. An electronic newsletter keeps people updated. Conference presentations offer insights.
The Observatory’s team comprises individuals from various European countries. This multicultural mix is one of its greatest strengths. The team is made up of twenty-eight people from ten countries.
The European Audiovisual Observatory also houses the secretariat of the European Platform of Regulatory Authorities. It is also known as EPRA. This allows for a lively information exchange about broadcasting regulation in Europe.
The European Audiovisual Observatory maintains several databases. These include LUMIERE, AVMS, IRIS Merlin, and MAVISE. Each database offers unique insights into the audiovisual sector. LUMIERE, for example, tracks ticket sales for films released in Europe.
Sixty publications are released each year in three languages. The Observatory’s advisory committee includes forty-two professional organizations. They cover forty countries, reporting on pan-European issues. Literally hundreds of individual information suppliers make up their European information network.
The European Audiovisual Observatory offers a unique vantage point. It allows us to observe and understand the ever-evolving world of European media. It promotes informed discussions. It shapes the future of the audiovisual industry.