The Netherlands Makes History as First Guest of Honour at Paris Book Market
07 June 2026
We look back at a highly successful Dutch focus at the Paris Book Market (June 4–5). Organized by the Dutch Foundation of Literature and the Embassy of the Netherlands in France, this initiative marked the country’s debut as the book market's very first Guest of Honour. The program highlighted the strength of international literary exchange.
.png)
A delegation of twelve Dutch publishers utilized their exclusive rights to pitch and sell titles to 175 French and international rights managers. We hosted a major network reception at the Atelier Néerlandais and celebrated the opening of the Paris Book Fair, featuring speeches by Romkje de Bildt, managing director of the Dutch Foundation for Literature, and publishing director Antoine Gallimard. The event also showcased Dutch talent, presenting renowned authors such as Jaap Robben, Raoul de Jong, and Emma Doude van Troostwijk on the stage.
Guests at the Atelier Néerlandais reception also enjoyed a special preview of the 'Penselen' illustration exhibition. The program concluded on June 6 at the Marché de la Poésie with readings by award-winning poets Hester Knibbe and Hélène Gelèns from their newly translated French editions.