New principles for TV co-production in Europe

After four years of debate, the Council of Europe adopted the Convention on the Co-production of audiovisual works in the form of series (Convention). The instrument reflects key principles championed by PSM: shared responsibility for financing and creative decisions, shared ownership of the final work, and audience data-sharing. 

As Sophia Wistehube, Senior Legal Counsel at the EBU, reflected: "We hope this instrument will reinforce PSM's position as the best and most reliable partners for independent producers, fostering cultural diversity and driving the creation of outstanding, high-quality TV productions."

The Convention will open for signature by Council of Europe member countries in early 2026 and enter into force upon ratification by three countries. It is accompanied by an Explanatory Report, helping to interpret the text.

Read more:

• EBU contribution to the draft proposal for a Council of Europe Convention on the Coproduction of audiovisual works in the form of series, June 2023
• EBU contribution to the consultation on the Council of Europe Draft Convention on the co-production of audiovisual works in the form of series, October 2024
• EBU Legal Analysis Council of Europe draft Convention on the co-production of audiovisual works in the form of series, October 2024
• Legal expert opinion, April 2024
• Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe Opinion on the Convention on the Co-production of audiovisual works in the form of series