CORONAVIRUS CLOSES MANY PHILATELIC EVENTS. NEWS UPDATE…..
The unprecedented steps taken by governments across the world to combat the Coronavirus have had a huge impact on planned philatelic exhibitions and other events in 2020. This is because of the paramount importance of avoiding non-essential social contact that might spread the disease further.
Many FEPA Members have been affected. Major changes that have been reported to us are as follows:
Austria: Tag der Offenen Tür postponed to the autumn.
All Austria Post philatelic events cancelled until at least 30 April.
Bulgaria: BULGARIA 2020 cancelled.
Czech Republic: Events planned in March cancelled.
Denmark: Societies recommended to cancel all events by the Federation.
Finland: SFEx national exhibition postponed until August 2020.
Germany: DASV event in Regensburg and Essen Fair cancelled (among others).
Italy: Milanofil and Veronafil (due to be held in May) cancelled.
Norway: Societies recommended to cancel all events by the Federation.
Slovenia: FIRAMLA Youth exhibition postponed until the autumn.
Spain: Expomax Valencia 2020; FESOFI Conference, General Assembly postponed.
Sweden: Events with more than 500 visitors to be cancelled in the short term.
Switzerland: General Assembly of the VSPhV cancelled.
UK: LONDON 2020 postponed until February 2022.
Societies recommended to cancel all events by the Federation.
Other countries have probably also taken steps to change theor programmes that we are not aware of. Outside Europe New Zealand 2020 has been restricted to a national show and many shows in the USA have been cancelled or delayed.
We do not know at this stage how long the crisis will continue or when restrictions on travel will be lifted. But we want to use this website to keep out Members informed of what is happening across Europe and beyond. To help us, please let us know of any significant decisions taken in your country regarding future philatelic events.
Bill Hedley