From 29 August to 2 September, Melbourne, UNESCO Creative City of Literature, in partnership with Melbourne Writers Festival (MWF), hosted a delegation of international festival directors to the 2018 edition of the Festival with the aim of stimulating best practice sharing, fostering new international cooperation and increasing the transit of Australian artists around the world.

During round-table sessions, the literary professionals exchanged knowledge and experiences. “The Roundtable was very well conceived and curated, and it was a pleasure to interact with my counterparts from across the world, and gain from their experience.” said Maina Bhagat, Director of Oxford Bookstores and Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival.

Among the topics discussed were the introduction to small and medium-sized companies in the first steps for international cooperation; the challenges and opportunities of tourism and of international connection; and the importance of literary programming through its festivals to encourage cultural life and heritage safeguarding in the City – key themes that are outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 8 and 11.

“We are so honoured to be part of this programme and it was useful […] on so many levels – from meeting other literary programmers, understanding context as well as the practicalities, and of course experiencing the brave, thoughtful and heartfelt MWF!” highlighted Jobina Tan, Head of Programming at Singapore Arts House.

MWF also showcased the Festival programme, emerging themes in Australian literature, and Australian talents. Delegates attended networking and cultural events and had the opportunity to explore the rest of the Festival across Melbourne.