The Movies that Matter Festival have announced that applications are now open for the 2025 Cinema Without Borders (CWB) programme, set to take place in the Hague, Netherlands. Applications are welcome from participants the world over.
According to the organisers, the five-day workshop and networking programme, scheduled for March 22 to 26 next year, aims to equip filmmakers on how to organise a human rights film festival or mobile cinema project. ”We will bring together starting and more experienced film festival professionals from Africa, Asia, Eastern Europa, Latin America and the Middle East,” it said.
Since its inception in 2006, CWB has hosted 18 editions, including workshops in Burkina Faso, Jordan, Argentina, and Kenya. Over 200 participants from more than 60 countries have benefited from the programme.
Participants will engage in interactive workshops, led by industry experts, to explore various aspects of organising human rights film festivals, including programming films and debates, fundraising and impact strategies, promotion and audience engagement.
Eligibility
To be eligible, applicants must have experience in organising socially engaged film events or festivals, be affiliated with a non-profit organisation, and demonstrate motivation and expertise. Gender and regional balance will also be considered.
The festival added: “We will select a maximum of 15 qualified participants from the field of cinema and human rights, who preferably already have some experience in organising at least one socially engaged film event/festival. A relationship to a non-profit organisation is a requirement for participation.”
Applicants must submit their applications by filling out the online application form. The application requires uploading a resume (CV) and photo, along with a detailed explanation of motivation for participating in the CWB programme, affinity with film and human rights issues, and what they can contribute to the programme from their expertise or organisation.
Additionally, applicants must describe the human rights film event or festival they would like to organise, including general aims, target audience, set-up, programme ideas, planning, and preliminary budget.
The application deadline is January 5. Participation is free, with travel and lodging costs covered.
