Weimer changes the procedure for the German Publishing Prize: Minister will select prize winners himself based on the jury’s recommendations

“The further developed process serves a transparent and careful assessment of any questions in the selection process and strengthens the responsible exchange between the partners involved,” said a statement at the start of the application phase.

The stock exchange association welcomed “the fact that a procedure was found that ensures more transparency and traceability”. This means the important industry award can be continued. He will be on October 9th at the Frankfurt Book Fair awarded.

In the spring, Weimer had three bookstores selected by a jury for the bookstore prize because of “findings relevant to the protection of the constitution.” removed from the list of award winners. The decision aroused criticism, as did the review of the nominees by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution. It was not publicly known what the bookstores were accused of.

Publishing prize for dozens of houses

The German Publishing Prize honors small, independent houses with particularly interesting programs. Three outstanding publishers will be awarded a seal of quality worth 50,000 euros. Up to 79 other publishers can receive prizes of 18,000 euros each. A sustainability prize and an innovation prize are each worth 24,000 euros. According to the announcement, a total of millions of euros are available for prize money.

According to the announcement, publishers “whose publishing program includes books with content that is harmful to minors, glorifies violence, anti-constitutional (in particular anti-Semitic, racist or other group-related inhumane) or criminal content” are not eligible to participate.

According to a spokesman for Weimer, it would again be conceivable “in absolutely exceptional cases” to have nominees examined by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution as part of the so-called Haber procedure. The aim, however, is to use the new advisory committee to eliminate possible disputes or doubts during the selection process, said the spokesman.