The 23rd edition of the Geneva International Film Festival and Forum on Human Rights (FIFDH) is making a call for reflection and action in a world threatened by rising extremism, geopolitical turmoil, and the erosion of fundamental rights. From 7-16 March, the festival brings together filmmakers, thinkers, and activists to confront some of the time’s most pressing issues.
One of the central themes of this year’s festival is the global rise of extremist ideologies. Across the United States and Europe, radicalised political movements have gained traction, often unified by divisive rhetoric that undermines democratic values. Several films explore this phenomenon, including The Last Republican by Steve Pink, which documents U.S. politician Adam Kinzinger’s outspoken opposition to President #Donald Trump# and his role in the 2021 Capitol attack. The film’s European premiere will be accompanied by a forum on the future of the United States, featuring author Douglas Kennedy.
Lebanon and Sudan take centre stage in the festival’s focus on civil society struggles. The forum Lebanese Resilience Put to the Test will explore Lebanon’s political crises, preceded by the documentary To Close Your Eyes and See Fire. Meanwhile, the festival spotlights Sudan’s devastating #conflict through the film Khartoum, produced by Sudanese filmmakers.
FIFDH showcases three feature films highlighting women’s battles against patriarchal oppression: Manas by Marianna Brennand, Sugar Island by Johanné Gómez Terrero, and Norah by Tawik Alzaidi. Forums such as Gender-Based Violence: Ending Silence and Shame and Sport as a Mirror of Social Norms further discussions on #gender inequality#, featuring figures like journalist Giulia Foïs and sprinter Halba Diouf.
Films like A State of Passion, which follows British-Palestinian surgeon Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah in #Gaza, and The Bibi Files<, an investigative documentary on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, shed light on ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts and their geopolitical impact.
Switzerland’s role in humanitarian efforts is examined in the forum UNRWA Called into Question: Is Humanitarian Law Dead?, featuring UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini and former Swiss Ambassador to Israel Jean-Daniel Ruch.
Finally, the festival promotes transforming outrage into action. Films like The Tender Revolution by Annelie Boroș and Queer Camp by Chris Westendorp and Lucas van der Rhee emphasise solidarity, kindness, and collective well-being.
Find more information and the full 2025 FIFDH programme – HERE
