Event Details and Significance
From September 18 to 28, 2025, the Museo Nacional de Antropología (MNA) in Mexico City will host the 36th International Book Fair of Anthropology and History (FILAH), the most significant literary event in Latin America specializing in anthropological sciences. This year, Costa de Marfil and Tabasco will be the guests of honor, with special participation from UNESCO.
Background on Key Figures
The announcement was made during a press conference on September 9, 2025, at the MNA’s lobby. Key figures present included:
- Joel Omar Vázquez Herrera, General Director of the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH)
- Robert Ly Djerou, Ambassador of Costa de Marfil to Mexico
- José Luis Perea González, Technical Secretary of INAH
- Aída Elba Castillo Santiago, Secretary of Culture for Tabasco
- Beatriz Quintanar Hinojosa, National Coordinator of Diffusion at INAH
- Alejandro Alcaraz, UNESCO Cultural Specialist
- Antonio Saborit García-Peña, Director of MNA
- Alejandra Moreno Toscano, Member of the Advisory Council and Founding Patron of Fundación Carmen Toscano
Purpose and Cultural Significance
According to anthropologist Joel Omar Vázquez Herrera, the FILAH aims to share knowledge generated by INAH with diverse audiences. He described it as a space for reflection, dialogue, and discussion on advancements in anthropological themes.
Costa de Marfil and Tabasco, both significant producers of cacao, share a vast and deep cultural diversity, which will be recognized and celebrated during this event. Robert Ly Djerou, speaking on behalf of the Costa de Marfil government and people, expressed gratitude for the invitation and highlighted common challenges faced by Mexico and Costa de Marfil, as well as shared aspects like diversity, creativity, and community vitality.
Fair Highlights
The 36th FILAH will offer over 400 academic, artistic, and cultural activities, including:
- 191 editorial presentations
- 78 workshops
- 50 artistic exhibitions
- 11 academic forums
- 7 exhibitions
- 4 tributes
Notable mentions include the presentation of the XXVII Antonio García Cubas Award, recognizing editorial excellence related to INAH’s work, with the addition of a category for books in indigenous languages. Additionally, cinephiles can look forward to the Venado de Plata awards for the “Miradas sin tiempo” film competition, part of the IV Anthropological Film Festival showcasing 24 films.
Temporary Museum Exhibitions
During the 11 days of the event, attendees can explore seven temporary museum exhibitions related to the guests of honor’s heritage, linguistics, paleontology, and specific topics like the history of bibliophile Joaquín García Icazbalceta and the former National Museum of Mexico.
The Museo Nacional de Antropología is located on Paseo de la Reforma Avenue and Gandhi Calzada, within Chapultepec Forest. All FILAH activities are free of charge.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the 36th International Book Fair of Anthropology and History (FILAH)? It is a significant literary event in Latin America specializing in anthropological sciences, organized by the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH).
- When and where will the event take place? The 36th FILAH will be held from September 18 to 28, 2025, at the Museo Nacional de Antropología (MNA) in Mexico City.
- Who are the guests of honor this year? Costa de Marfil and Tabasco will be the guests of honor at this year’s FILAH.
- What activities will be offered during the event? Over 400 academic, artistic, and cultural activities will be available, including editorial presentations, workshops, artistic exhibitions, academic forums, exhibitions, tributes, and film screenings.
- Are there any notable awards or competitions during the FILAH? Yes, the XXVII Antonio García Cubas Award will recognize editorial excellence related to INAH’s work, with a new category for books in indigenous languages. The Venado de Plata awards will be given to winners of the “Miradas sin tiempo” film competition during the IV Anthropological Film Festival.
