14/05/2024 - On 18 May, the "Cinema in Action: Use Your Voice, Use Your Vote. For Democracy" panel will tackle the participation of the film industry in the impending European elections

The 77th Cannes Film Festival will be the ideal place to use European cinema as a catalyst for democratic engagement. On 18 May, at the Main Stage of Riviera (from 12:00 to 13:00 CET), the European Parliament will organise a conference to discuss the important engagement of the cinema ecosystem in the protection and safeguarding of democratic values both in Europe and worldwide. Register here to attend it in person, or follow it live on the LUX Audience Award YouTube channel.

European cinema, with its rich tapestry of storytelling, has long been a beacon for addressing pressing societal issues. From the intricacies of war and migration to the complexities of climate change and freedom of expression, European filmmakers have wielded their craft to provoke thought, inspire action and foster societal cohesion. As the European Parliament converges at Cannes under the banner "Cinema in Action: Use Your Voice, Use Your Vote. For Democracy", the spotlight falls not just on the art of filmmaking, but also on the vital role it plays in nurturing democratic values.

At the heart of this gathering lies a resounding call to action: the impending European elections (6-9 June), set to be the largest exercise of direct democracy across the 27 EU Member States. This electoral process isn't just about selecting representatives; it's about entrusting individuals with the profound responsibility of shaping policies that impact the lives of over 500 million Europeans. From cultural preservation to the mobility of artists, the decisions made within the European Parliament resonate deeply within the fabric of European identity.

Amidst the film premieres at Cannes, luminaries from the film industry, including directors, producers and stakeholders, will unite to amplify a singular message: the imperative of democratic participation. They recognise that their platform extends far beyond the silver screen; it's a conduit for igniting societal change and fostering civic engagement. As European Parliament director for liaison offices Stephen Clark asserts, “The mobilisation of the film sector for democracy is not just desirable, but essential.”

Mike Downey, chair of the European Film Academy, will take centre stage to underscore the industry's commitment to democratic ideals. Downey's presence highlights the European film industry's unified stance in championing democratic values on a global scale.

The power of cinema lies in its ability to mirror the complexities of the human experience. Through films like The Zone of Interest [+see also:
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Q&A: Pawel Pawlikowski
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interview: Pawel Pawlikowski
film profile], producers such as Ewa Puszczynska have masterfully captured historical narratives that resonate across generations. These cinematic odysseys serve as poignant reminders of our collective past and harbingers of the future we seek to forge. Likewise, Kjersti Mo, through her role as vice-president of the European Film Academy, exemplifies the industry's commitment to championing democratic ideals on a global stage.

Denis Ivanov, the Ukrainian producer of the works by Sakharov Prize winner Oleh Sentsov, will offer an insightful view of what it means to defend democracy nowadays.

Yet, beyond its capacity for reflection, cinema serves as a catalyst for action. Films such as Green Border [+see also:
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interview: Mstyslav Chernov
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In this crucible of creativity and conscience, the European Parliament issues a clarion call to filmmakers, festivals and artists alike: stand as guardians of democracy. Through collective action and a shared purpose, the film industry can galvanise European citizens to exercise their democratic rights and shape the future of the continent. As Alina Serban, actress, director, playwright and artivist, echoes in her final call to vote, the strength of European democracy lies not just in its institutions, but also in the unwavering commitment of its people.

The event, to be moderated by FERA CEO Pauline Durand Vialle, promises to be a dynamic exchange of ideas.