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Docudays UA, the International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival, was launched in 2003 as an initiative by a human rights organization in Kyiv. The festival began as a platform to build a civil society grounded in justice, human dignity, and respect for human rights. Over the years, the festival expanded, evolving from a Kyiv-based event into a nationwide celebration of documentary filmmaking. It added a Traveling Festival to its activities, that is showcasing the best films of the festival across Ukraine, establishing a network of cinema clubs, and engaging in cultural diplomacy projects that brought Ukrainian culture to Europe.
The impact of war
On February 24, 2022, the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia posed a fundamental question: Is there a place for a film festival during a time of war? With bombs falling, lives threatened, and homes destroyed, the idea of hosting a festival seemed unimaginable. However, the unique skill set of film festival teams, known for their crisis management abilities and extensive networks, became crucial in this new reality.
Docudays' response to the war
Recognizing that traditional festival activities were not feasible under the circumstances, the Docudays UA team quickly adapted to the changing needs of their community. They began by analyzing the needs of Ukrainian society and the communities they served, leading to the emergence of two key initiatives that have since become the focus of their efforts:
1. Ukraine War Archive - "The world must know the history of this war, so we record it."
This project was born from the need to document the war and preserve the truth for future generations. The Ukraine War Archive is a non-profit information platform that collects and stores various forms of digital evidence from the war, including videos, audio recordings, and interviews. The archive serves as a vital resource for human rights defenders, lawyers, filmmakers, journalists, and others working to ensure that the atrocities of the war are accurately recorded and represented in legal and public discourse. The platform is a collaborative effort, with contributions from various organizations and individuals across Ukraine. Access to the Ukraine War Archive is restricted and granted only after thorough background checks and authorizations, ensuring the integrity and security of the sensitive materials.
2. Support for Ukrainian Documentary Filmmakers
In response to the urgent needs of documentary filmmakers working in dangerous conditions, the festival launched an initiative to collect donations from international supporters. These funds have been used to provide essential equipment such as flak jackets, gas masks, medical kits, and technical gear to ensure the safety and continued work of filmmakers in the field. Additionally, with support from the German Film Academy and the German Ministry of Culture, scholarships were awarded to Ukrainian documentary filmmakers to help them survive financially during the war.
The following questions and answers are taken out of the 'Solidarity with Ukraine' online meeting organised by the European Festivals Association in 2023. Please also have a read of their publication "Festivals programming in times of war - Report on the survey on the war in Ukraine April - May 2022" by clicking here.
How do you see your role serving Ukrainian audiences in times of war?
Continuation: Despite challenges like electricity and internet disruptions, high importance to continue to screen films and create spaces for solidarity and trauma exchange.
Strategic Collaboration: Highlighted need for a focused strategy in participating in international festivals, to avoid chaotic, ad-hoc engagements and to better deliver Ukraine's message.
Cultural Diplomacy: Call for independent funding to support Ukrainian cultural diplomacy abroad.
What are the greatest needs/challenges you face in programming internationally?
The need to prioritize and select international invitations that align with Ukraine's cultural diplomacy goals.
The importance of securing independent funds to maintain these efforts.
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