Armenia showcases literature at Leipzig Book Fair

The Yerevan-based ARI Literature Foundation showcased Armenian works at the Leipzig International Book Fair last month, presenting a national pavilion under the theme “Armenia, the Land of Letters.” 

The Leipzig Book Fair, one of Europe’s largest literary events, brought together publishers, authors, and readers from more than 54 countries this year, drawing a record 313,000 visitors. Participating in the fair’s Armenian program included authors, translators and scholars from Armenia and Europe. 

At the Armenian pavilion’s official opening, ARI founding director Arevik Ashkharoyan stressed the importance of international platforms for advancing cultural diplomacy, promoting Armenian literature in translation, and building new partnerships. She also thanked partner organizations and supporters who made the initiative possible. 

Newly published German-language translations by Armenian authors were presented, with support from the Goethe-Institut Armenia, including Mkrtich Armen’s novel Yerevan, presented by translator Suzanna Yeghoyan. In remarks, Goethe’s Armenia Director Dr. Jan-Tage Kühling said ARI’s focus on contemporary Armenian literature “illustrates the meaningful way in which Armenian writers confront and engage with their difficult and often painful past while still looking toward the future.”

Other speakers highlighted the role of civil society in promoting Armenian culture abroad through initiatives led by non-governmental organizations, and underscored the importance of supporting democratic development in Armenia as the country pursues closer ties with Europe.  

Over four days, the ARI Literature Foundation organized panel discussions and public lectures, with the aim of fostering international literary dialogue and situating Armenian writing within a broader European context. 

One panel highlighted how translators act as cultural and political mediators and how Armenian writers abroad navigate language, migration, and belonging. 

At another discussion, Armenian writers explored whether writing in other languages distances authors from their roots or expands their reach, and how literature preserves national memory across borders. The panels also underscored the growing international visibility of Armenian voices, including works entering European literary and educational spaces. 

A public lecture on Armenian-German ties traced the historical and cultural development of relations between the two countries, emphasizing cooperation in literature, education and scholarship.

In comments to CivilNet, ARI director Ashkharoyan described the pavilion as an important part of the country’s broader international engagement, though it was carried out without support from the Armenian government. 

“Beyond being a cultural endeavor, it’s an act of cultural diplomacy,” she said, adding that such efforts support Armenia’s efforts to diversify its global partnerships. 

Ashkharoyan emphasized that such endeavors require greater backing from relevant government ministries, given the role they play in advancing the country’s foreign policy outreach.