Romania Showcases Transnational Literature at the London Book Fair
Embassy and Romanian Cultural Institute highlight translation, migration, and literary exchange
March 20th, 2026
Romania marked its 16th participation at the London Book Fair with a dynamic programme dedicated to contemporary literature and cross-cultural exchange. The Romanian stand was officially opened in London by Laura Popescu, in the presence of Ruslan Bolbocean. Organised by the Romanian Cultural Institute through its National Book Centre and the Romanian Cultural Institute in London, with the support of the Embassy of Romania in the United Kingdom and industry partners, the programme reflects Romania’s sustained commitment to promoting its literary voice on the global stage.
This year’s curatorial focus explores Romanian literature as it is written, translated, and published across languages and geographies, with particular attention to themes of migration, identity, and belonging. As noted by Aura Woodward, the programme emphasises how literature transcends borders and captures lived experiences shaped by movement and cultural exchange. Events include book launches and discussions hosted at prominent venues such as Hatchards Piccadilly and Waterstones, featuring authors, translators, editors, and publishers whose work bridges multiple cultures and languages.
Participants in the programme include writers and cultural figures such as Tatiana Țîbuleac, Cătălina Florescu, Claudiu Komartin, Paul Doru Mugur, Vesna Goldsworthy, and Monica Cure, alongside publishers such as Susan Curtis and Will Evans. The programme also marks two important milestones: 20 years of the Romanian Cultural Institute’s Translation and Publication Support Programme and 15 years of Istros Books, both of which have played a key role in bringing Romanian literature to international audiences.
Beyond its literary dimension, Romania’s participation highlights the strategic importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international visibility and fostering creative industries. By promoting translation, publishing partnerships, and literary exchange, such initiatives contribute to expanding market access for authors while enhancing Romania’s cultural presence abroad. Within the broader European and global publishing ecosystem, these efforts support dialogue across cultures and reinforce shared values of diversity, creativity, and intellectual exchange.
Over the course of four days, the Romanian programme at the London Book Fair offers a platform for sustained engagement between authors, publishers, and readers. By investing in long-term partnerships and supporting the international circulation of literature, Romania continues to strengthen its cultural footprint while contributing to a more interconnected global literary landscape.
References:
- https://www.facebook.com/ICRLondon/posts/pfbid02DP2RJHwyXyLTRRYuAEX8FBAHTe2GaRy82L1vHRx2m1ZNH12qvi2GpUetpHMBE6whl
- https://www.rcilondon.co.uk/event-details/romanian-literature-foreign-address-romania-at-the-london-book-fair-2026?fbclid=IwY2xjawQp8GZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBiTDZ5cGt4WXltNkxISmY0c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHnFMnzth4UAfyPrR3FNgkTKcUT0mQqnSHRYI7RqvsHhlbaUqyR5_ifpenQ6T_aem_Xl0LXRzIwUKtPgYBaLsp4Q
