Italy's 'Più Libri più Liberi' Book Fair Admits 300 Exhibitors Amid Antifascist Values Debate

The national small‑and‑medium publishing fair "Più Libri più Liberi" is preparing its 25th edition in Rome, confirming the admission of roughly 300 exhibitors after a rigorous selection process. Applications exceeded the venue’s capacity, leading to 34 rejections; priority was given to publishers whose main activity is editorial work and who belong to sector associations such as AIE and ADEI, with a preference for those who have previously participated.

The fair’s recent statement invoking antifascist values, defended as a constitutional principle, sparked controversy and criticism from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who labeled it censorship. Organisers reaffirmed their commitment to cultural pluralism, freedom of expression, and the protection of the publishing heritage, promising debates and meetings on these themes during the event.