MIPTV to have no Russian attendees as Ukraine conflict deepens

There will be no Russian attendees at MIPTV next month as the country’s invasion of Ukraine continues, TBI has learned.

MIPTV organisers RX France (formerly Reed Midem) said it was following French government policy to prevent Russian presence at the event, with buyers as well as distributors and producers now unable to attend.

RX France said it “strongly condemns the Russian invasion of Ukraine” and “stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, particularly with our employees around the world who have family and friends in the Ukraine.”

The statement added: “We also stand in solidarity with our Russian employees working in challenging conditions.  In a rapidly changing environment, RX is following government sanctions and policies in each territory where we operate.”

MIPTV’s 59th edition is set to run in Cannes from 4-6 April and will again take up residence at the Palais des Festivals.

MIPTV’s decision follows news yesterday that export body Roskino had been barred from fellow French festival SeriesMania later this month.