Five Kurdish films from the Kurdistan Region will appear at the 12th International Anti-Violence Film Festival in Spain, giving Kurdish filmmakers another opportunity to present their stories to international audiences. The selection reflects the growing recognition of Kurdish cinema and its increasing presence at major cultural events around the world.
The festival will begin on Oct. 2, 2026, and continue for nine days. Organizers will screen films that promote peace, human rights, social justice, and dialogue. Therefore, filmmakers from many countries will gather to exchange ideas and showcase productions that focus on humanitarian values.
Filmmaker Jubrail Abubakr, who directed two of the selected films, described the event as one of the leading international festivals dedicated to peace and nonviolence. He explained that the festival welcomes films that encourage understanding and highlight the importance of protecting human dignity.
Moreover, Abubakr said the participation of five Kurdish films represents an important achievement for the Kurdistan Region’s film industry. He noted that Kurdish cinema has continued to expand its international reach in recent years. As a result, more audiences around the world now have opportunities to discover Kurdish culture and storytelling.
He also emphasized that cinema offers a powerful way to share stories of hope, hardship, and resilience. Through these productions, filmmakers aim to introduce Kurdish identity to global viewers while encouraging cultural exchange and mutual respect.
In addition, Abubakr said he remains committed to helping Kurdish filmmakers participate in international festivals. He explained that his goal extends beyond festival participation. Instead, he wants global audiences, critics, and film professionals to experience authentic stories from the Kurdistan Region through high-quality filmmaking.
The five selected productions represent different directors and creative approaches. The participating films include Pelican, directed by Hersh Abdulwahab Haji, and A Window to the Sky, directed by Abdulkhaliq Jawdat.
The festival will also feature Sea of Hope and The Pomegranate Was Torn Apart, both directed by Jubrail Abubakr. Meanwhile, director Sami Kaka will present Silent Mountain.
Together, these films explore themes of humanity, peace, perseverance, and hope. Consequently, they reflect the diversity of Kurdish filmmaking while presenting local stories with international appeal.
The upcoming festival offers another important platform for Kurdish filmmakers to strengthen their global presence. Furthermore, the event allows international audiences to experience the culture, creativity, and artistic vision of the Kurdistan Region through cinema.