The 29th Algerian International Book Fair, also known as Sila 2026, kicked off on October 28 and will run until November 7, 2026, with over 1600 exhibitors from 51 countries, including Tunisia. The event is being held under the theme "The Future Between the Pages of a Book." Tunisia's participation is notable, with a selection of prominent intellectuals and writers taking part in various discussions, translation workshops, and other activities.
One of the highlights of Tunisia's participation is the session titled "The Impact of Ideas," featuring renowned Tunisian thinker and sociologist Taher Labib. Labib will engage in a conversation with academic Arous Azzaib, exploring current intellectual trends and transformations in the region. The session aims to emphasize the role of intellectuals in shaping collective awareness and resisting epistemological marginalization.
Another significant event featuring a Tunisian participant is the workshop titled "Translation... Bridges of Crossing and Discovery." Tunisian translator and academic Abdelaziz Ayadi, a professor of philosophy at the University of Sfax, will discuss the reality of novel and thought translation, along with his counterparts from Egypt, Iraq, Italy, and the United States. The workshop will focus on the role of translation as a creative tool for rephrasing shared human meanings.
In the axis of major transformations and questioning future challenges, Tunisian academic Rida Ben Hamid will participate in an intellectual workshop titled "Beyond the Book... What Future for Human Reason in the Era of Artificial Intelligence?" The session will bring together Lebanese publisher Rana Idris, Palestinian publisher Khaled Suleiman Al-Naseri, and Algerian academic Abdelrazak Belakrouz. The discussion will revolve around the transition from linear to interactive culture and the blurred lines between human and artificial creativity.
The cultural program of the fair also includes a tribute to "National Memory and Shared History: The Present of Tunisia and Algeria." Tunisian writer and historian Amira Alia Sghir will participate in this event, along with journalist and writer Kamal Ben Yunes, who will take part in a session dedicated to the late Algerian nationalist and intellectual Ahmed Taleb Ibrahimi.
Furthermore, Tunisian poet Samia Yaakoubi will participate in an Arabic poetry evening, alongside a group of poets from Egypt, Jordan, Palestine, Iraq, and Oman. This event aims to celebrate Arabic poetry and provide a platform for poets to share their work.
The participation of Tunisian intellectuals, writers, and poets in the 29th Algerian International Book Fair reflects the depth of historical ties and cultural exchange between Tunisia and Algeria. The events and workshops featuring Tunisian participants will provide a valuable opportunity for cultural and intellectual exchange, highlighting the significance of literature and translation in building bridges between nations.
Key points
- Tunisian intellectuals and writers make a notable presence at the 29th Algerian International Book Fair.
- The events and workshops featuring Tunisian participants focus on intellectual trends, translation, and cultural exchange.
- The participation of Tunisian intellectuals, writers, and poets reflects the depth of historical ties and cultural exchange between Tunisia and Algeria.
