Motion Picture Association Endorses Declarations on Cinema Future and Anti-Piracy at 2026 Lumière Summit

The MPA's endorsements signal a shift towards stronger global cooperation in combating piracy and adapting to technological changes in the film industry.

• On September 7, 2026, the Motion Picture Association signed two key declarations at the Lumière Summit in France.
• The declarations focus on the future of cinema and enhanced international cooperation against piracy.
• Investment pledges of €1 billion from France and South Korea were announced to support the creative sectors over the next five years.

• Global challenges like AI and streaming are reshaping the film and audiovisual industries, prompting urgent responses.
• France and South Korea have a history of cultural cooperation, making their partnership at this summit significant for the creative sector.
• The Lumière Summit aimed to foster multilateral investment and collaboration, addressing the need for a unified approach to industry challenges.

The Lumière Summit, held in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France, on September 7, 2026, marked a pivotal moment for the global film and audiovisual industries. The Motion Picture Association (MPA), led by Chairman and CEO Charles Rivkin, endorsed two significant declarations aimed at shaping the future of cinema and enhancing international cooperation against piracy. This event was co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, highlighting the importance of cross-border collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world.

The first declaration focuses on the future of cinema and the moving image, emphasizing the need for innovation and adaptation in response to technological disruptions such as artificial intelligence and the rise of streaming platforms. The second declaration addresses the urgent need for strengthened international cooperation in combating film and audiovisual piracy, a growing concern that threatens the economic viability of the creative sector.

The summit's discussions underscored the importance of human creativity and the necessity for industry leaders to work together to navigate the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements. Rivkin's participation in roundtables with both Macron and Lee emphasized the potential for collaborative investment and partnerships in the creative sector. The commitment of €1 billion from France and South Korea over five years to support the Lumière Partnership is a clear indication of the seriousness with which these nations approach the future of their film industries.

The aftermath of the summit saw both governments formalizing their commitments, each pledging €500 million to the partnership. This funding is intended to bolster the film and audiovisual industries, ensuring that they remain competitive and resilient in the face of ongoing challenges. The declarations also establish principles for intellectual property protection, creative diversity, and anti-piracy cooperation, which are crucial for fostering a sustainable creative ecosystem.

As the industry grapples with the implications of AI and shifting business models, the MPA's endorsements signal a proactive approach to safeguarding the future of cinema. By fostering international collaboration and investment, the MPA aims to create a more robust framework for the creative sector, ensuring that it can thrive in an evolving landscape.

• Film and audiovisual professionals: Increased funding and support for projects may lead to more job opportunities.
• Content creators: New international standards could enhance protection against piracy, benefiting creators financially.
• Investors and production companies: Potential for new partnerships and investment opportunities in the creative sector.

• Implementation of the declarations: Monitor how effectively the principles for IP protection and anti-piracy cooperation are put into practice.
• Investment flow: Watch for the impact of the €1 billion investment on the film and audiovisual sectors in France and South Korea.
• Global collaboration trends: Keep an eye on how other countries respond to these declarations and whether similar partnerships emerge.