The idea behind spotlighting a ‘Country of Honor’ at MIPCOM Cannes is part of a broader strategy by European content stakeholders to elevate the standings—and therefore inflate the value—of regional content against the relentless spread of US media on the global stage. But while we see it as a mostly defensive move on the content chess board, event organizers will argue that it is recognition of the growing global appetite for diverse storytelling, while an encouraging sign of high-quality non-US productions better competing with heavyweights over the pond. We think there is a fair case for debate on either side. With Spain wearing the crown at this year’s annual TV content gathering in the South of France, presentations emphasize that…