The Beyond Borders – Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival is preparing for its 11th edition, scheduled to run from 23-30 August on the Greek island of Kastellorizo. Following the success of its tenth-anniversary event last year, the festival continues to position itself as a meeting point for international documentary cinema, bringing together filmmakers, professionals and audiences in a setting that encourages dialogue and reflection through non-fiction storytelling. Once again, Kastellorizo will host a carefully curated programme of documentaries engaging with pressing global issues and cross-border narratives.

The festival has officially opened its call for submissions, welcoming entries from Greek and international documentary filmmakers as of 2 January, with the deadline set for 30 April. After receiving a record-breaking 907 submissions from around the world during its tenth edition, Beyond Borders is aiming to build on this momentum with another strong international turnout.

The Competition Programme of the 11th edition will include 42 films, presented across two sections. The Main Competition will feature medium-length (31-60 minutes) and feature-length (61 minutes and above) documentaries, while the μicro Competition will be dedicated to short films (up to 30 minutes) and is exclusively open to filmmakers who have directed no more than three movies. Non-Greek productions or co-productions must hold at least their Greek premiere at the festival in order to be eligible.

Remaining faithful to its core identity, Beyond Borders continues to spotlight documentaries that delve into historical events and personalities, contemporary socio-political issues, human rights and cross-border themes. These works reflect both urgent global concerns and evolving trends in international documentary filmmaking. Films submitted for consideration in the competition sections must have been completed in 2025 or 2026.

Set against the distinctive backdrop of the Aegean Sea, Beyond Borders offers a unique framework for cinematic exchange, professional networking and cultural encounters. Submissions are accepted exclusively via the FilmFreeway platform, while detailed regulations and participation terms are available on the festival’s official website.

Beyond Borders is organised by the Hellenic History Foundation (IDISME).