Human Rights Film Festival (HRFF) is an international film festival based in Italy dedicated to cinema that explores, promotes, and defends human rights in all their forms.

Through a curated selection of films from around the world, HRFF aims to give voice to underrepresented stories, marginalized communities, and urgent global issues. The festival creates a space where filmmakers, activists, and audiences can engage in meaningful dialogue around social justice, equality, and human dignity.

HRFF welcomes films that address themes such as civil rights, migration, gender equality, environmental justice, freedom of expression, and cultural identity. We believe in the power of cinema as a tool for awareness, education, and change.

In addition to screenings, the festival hosts talks, panels, and special events that foster connections between artists, professionals, and the public.

The Human Rights Film Festival is not only a showcase of films, but a platform for reflection, exchange, and collective action.

Rules & Terms

Eligibility
The Human Rights Film Festival (HRFF) accepts short films that explore themes related to human rights, including but not limited to: social justice, equality, migration, gender rights, environmental issues, freedom of expression, and cultural identity.

Films must have a maximum duration of 30 minutes (including credits).
All genres are accepted (fiction, documentary, animation, experimental).
Films must have been completed after January 1, 2024.

Submission Requirements

Films must be submitted via FilmFreeway.
All non-English films must include English subtitles.
Multiple submissions are allowed, but each entry requires a separate fee.

Selection Process

All submissions will be reviewed by the festival selection committee.
Selected films will be notified via FilmFreeway.
The festival reserves the right to program the selected films in different sections.

Screening & Rights

By submitting, the filmmaker grants HRFF the right to screen the film during the festival.
Selected films may be used for promotional purposes (trailers, clips, stills).
The festival does not pay screening fees unless otherwise agreed.

Awards
Awards may include (but are not limited to):

Best Human Rights Short Film
Jury Award
Audience Award

Liability

The submitter confirms they hold all necessary rights for the film.
HRFF is not responsible for any copyright violations.

General Conditions

Submission fees are non-refundable.
The festival reserves the right to update rules and regulations if necessary.
By submitting, participants fully accept these Rules & Terms.