Concept Summary

Challenge THE cultural event of every autumn, the Frankfurt Book Fair is invariably also a hub for socio-political debate. But where can issues such as climate, racism, sea rescue or equality be discussed when the gates to the fair remain closed due to a pandemic – and create points of contact to enable a discourse for highly diverse target groups? Idea Under the SIGNALS OF HOPE leitmotiv, the Frankfurt Book Fair’s first digital and international podium event was created – one that makes its mark. Inspired by the international signal flag alphabet, we developed our own distinct visual language that presents the program in an eye-catching and playful manner. The program itself is not confined to rigid discussion groups but takes advantage of the many digital opportunities – it makes the topics it addresses accessible to as many people as possible in a wide range of formats. Measures On our virtual stage, those affected and experts from organizations such as the UN, Amnesty International and Fridays for Future discussed sea rescue, gender equality, structural racism and climate change. Video essays, poetry slams, readings, DJ sets & podcasts further explored the topics on a specially developed website. The site allowed visitors to create their own SIGNAL OF HOPE using a generator and share it via social media: #signalsofhope