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MIDEM and other markets

The MIDEM Event

The main date in the IAEL calendar remains its annual event held at MIDEM, the main international trade fair of the music business held each January in Cannes, France.  Although the location means there is a strong music industry theme, the activities are often and increasingly relevant to lawyers working in other areas of entertainment law.

At Midem, the IAEL organise two formal sessions:

  • The first session deals with a subject chosen for its international relevance. Essays on the subject are published each year in the form of the IAEL Book. Contributors to the book and other leading lawyers and figures from the industry are invited to debate and participate in Q&A sessions with the audience on key issues (both legal and commercial) relevant to the chosen subject.
  • The second session includes presentations on the key developments in entertainment law and business in various territories during the previous year. These reports are later circulated to members where possible.  In 2011 the session will focus on both entertainment law and technology law issues relevant to the sector. 

In addition, the IAEL assists MIDEM in organising various legal workshops and a more detailed masterclass on topics of current interest.

You do not need to be a member of IAEL to attend these MIDEM sessions and anyone with an interest in entertainment, media or communications law is strongly encouraged to attend.

News regarding times and venues for the IAEL sessions are posted on the News and Events sections of this site and publicised by the MIDEM organisers.

Members who are interested in participating as contributors and/or speakers can find details of the opportunities available by visiting the News section of the website and/or by getting in touch via Contact Us.

Members only @ Midem

  • All IAEL members are also invited to members social events such as lunches, dinners and cocktails.
  • The IAEL also holds its annual general meeting and executive committee meetings at MIDEM.

Other Markets & Festivals

Over the past few years, a number of additional dates have been added to the IAEL calendar including participation in seminars at the Cannes Film Festival and other leading entertainment industry events.  These vary from time to time so please see the Events section for further details. If you have ideas or would like to organise further activities, please Contact us

The importance of IAEL's presence at MIDEM and these other conferences and markets lies also in the opportunity for lawyers from throughout the world to meet one another face to face and in an informal setting. Accordingly, organising informal networking opportunities can be as valuable as large formal sessions.

Check the News and Events sections of the website for further details.