The Writers’ House has issued a statement noting in the current situation, this year’s literary competition “Litera” is not to be held.

“Writers protested changes in the process of selecting jury members. The decision of the Ministry of Culture was assessed as interference in creative activities.

As a result, a large number of writers and publishers refused to participate in the competition and withdrew their applications. Four members of the jury selected by the Writers’ House also refused to work. Out of 110 books submitted to the competition, 92 books have been removed from the competition due to the personal statements of publishers and authors.

In the current situation, it becomes impossible to hold this year’s Litera. The Writers’ House hopes to re-examine the situation with the ministry and representatives of the literary field and find the best solution for next year”, - reads the statement.

Litera was founded in 2015 with the initiative of the Writers’ House and with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Monument Protection.