The 9th Aswan International Women’s Film Festival is currently underway in southern Egypt, bringing together filmmakers, activists, and audiences to spotlight women’s rights through cinema and public dialogue. Running from May 2 to 7 under the patronage of Egypt’s Culture and Tourism ministries, the festival features 72 films from roughly 30 countries alongside a series of forums tackling gender-based violence, child marriage, and social inequality.
Festival director Hassan Abu Al-Ela described the event as a platform to “amplify women’s struggles not just in Egypt but worldwide.” This year’s edition introduced the Nut Forum for Women’s Issues, part of the “Stars for Change” initiative, which pairs short films with discussions led by experts on issues including female genital mutilation and institutional accountability.
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Organizers expanded the festival’s outreach this year by holding screenings and conversations in Aswan’s main square and public library, aiming to reach audiences beyond traditional cinemas.
The film competitions include 10 feature-length entries and 20 shorts, with participating countries ranging from Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates to Switzerland and Argentina. Egyptian actress Dalia El Behery, serving on the feature film jury, remarked, “The selection is strong and impressively varied, reflecting truly global perspectives.”
Supported by the National Council for Women, UN Women, and the European Union, the festival emphasizes the power of film as a tool for social engagement. Organizers say the event reflects Egypt’s broader effort to position itself as a regional leader in cultural diplomacy.