Documentaries are a powerful means to inspire people and raise awareness of human rights violations.
The Human Rights Film Festival Berlin (HRFFB) returns as a hybrid on- & offline festival back to the heart of the German capital from September 16 – October 25, 2021. For 10 days, the festival will focus on stories from all parts of the world that vividly address and reflect on human action, the socio-political status quo and fundamental issues such as democracy, justice, freedom and environmental protection. Through discussions and Q&As with filmmakers, activists and experts, the festival creates a platform to gain new perspectives on our world.
The Human Rights Film Festival Berlin (HRFFB) was launched by the humanitarian and development organisation Aktion gegen den Hunger in 2018. The 2021 festival will be organised by Aktion gegen den Hunger in cooperation with Save the Children, and in partnership with Amnesty International. Each organisation has curated a selection of films, focussing on humanitarian aid and the fight against hunger, as well as children’s and human rights.
This year’s festival – under the patronage of the Saudi Arabian Human Rights Activist Loujain al-Hathloul – will be opened by Sundance winner SABAYA by Hogir Hirori.
16th September, 7.30 pm: Opening Ceremony
Opening speech by Lina al-Hathloul, human rights activist
As Loujain al-Hathloul has been banned from speaking publicly or continuing her activism for the next three years, her sister Lina al-Hathloul, who is fighting tirelessly for her sister’s freedom, will give the festival’s opening speech on her behalf.
Opening film SAYBAYA by Hogir Hirori
The so-called Islamic State attacked the city of Sinjar – murdering its men and kidnapping its women. Thousands are still being held captive as SABAYA (sex slaves). The men and women from the Yazidi Home Centre are their only chance to escape this hell.
