ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal to Recognize Cinematic Excellence in Promoting Peace and Non-Violence at IFFI 2025
Instituted at the 46th International Film Festival of India, the ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal is a prestigious international award that recognizes films promoting peace and intercultural dialogue. This year, ten remarkable films have been selected for consideration, each showcasing themes aligned with Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of non-violence. An esteemed jury, comprising prominent figures in the film industry, will evaluate these films, highlighting the importance of storytelling in fostering understanding and compassion across cultures.
The Esteemed Jury Panel
The jury for the ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal features a distinguished panel of experts from various facets of the film industry. Dr. Ahmed Bedjaoui, a renowned film and television director-producer and the Artistic Director of the International Film Festival of Algiers, serves as the Jury Chairperson. He is joined by Xueyan Hun, Vice-President of the International Council for Film, Television and Audiovisual Communication (CICT-ICFT) and Director of the Platform for Creativity and Innovation (PCI). Other notable members include Serge Michel, Vice-President of UNICA (Union Internationale du Cinéma), Tobias Biancone, former Director-General of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), and Georges Dupont, Director-General of CICT-ICFT and a former Senior International Civil Servant at UNESCO. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and insight to the evaluation process, ensuring that the selected films resonate with the ideals of peace and dialogue.
Notable Films in Competition
This year’s competition features a diverse array of films, each telling unique stories that reflect contemporary issues. One standout is “Brides,” directed by Nadia Falls, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival 2025. The film follows two British-Muslim teenage girls who escape their troubled lives in search of belonging. It offers a poignant exploration of radicalization, youth identity, and the quest for acceptance in a polarized world.
Another significant entry is “Safe House,” directed by Eirik Svensson. This gripping civil war drama, inspired by true events, unfolds over 15 harrowing hours in a Doctors Without Borders hospital during the 2013 civil war in the Central African Republic. It emphasizes the ethics of care and humanity amidst chaos, showcasing the resilience of individuals in dire circumstances.
Exploring Themes of Identity and Resilience
Several films in this year’s lineup delve into themes of identity and resilience. “Hana,” directed by Ujkan Hysaj, tells the story of an actress who joins an art-therapy program for war survivors in Kosovo. As she helps others confront their trauma, she is forced to confront her own buried pain. This film highlights the transformative power of art in healing and self-discovery. Similarly, “K Poper,” directed by Ebrahim Amini, explores the aspirations of an Iranian teenage girl obsessed with a K-pop idol. Her journey to Seoul is complicated by her mother’s disapproval, leading to a tender clash of dreams and generational values. This film captures the essence of youth aspiration and the complexities of parental relationships in a rapidly changing world.
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