Guarding Human Rights International Online Short Film Competition

The Guarding Human Rights International Online Short Film Competition focuses on critical human rights issues both within the United States and globally. The competition aims to address various human rights violations, such as the restriction of freedom of speech, the erosion of democratic values, the persecution of political opposition and activists, the spread of racism in all forms, the banning of women’s reproductive rights, and other acts that undermine fundamental human rights.

The top three winners, as selected by the competition jury, will receive Cinema Without Borders’ Bridging the Borders Diplomas and will also be featured in a comprehensive Cinema Without Borders article spotlighting their work.

Eligibility to Participate
The competition is open to both amateur and professional filmmakers worldwide, with the exception of individuals officially involved in the administration, advisory roles, or judging of the competition. Participants under the age of 16 must submit written parental consent to be eligible. Films in languages other than English are welcome, provided they include English subtitles.

The top three winners , decided by the jury, will receive Cinema Without Borders' Bridging the Borders Diplomas and will receive a comprehensive coverage of their work in a Cinema Without Borders feature story.

Eligibility to Participate
Participation in Crimes Against Humanity, is open to both amateur and professional filmmakers around the world except to persons officially responsible for administering, advising, and/or judging the competition. Individuals 16 and younger will require written parental consent to be considered.

Films in languages other than English may be submitted provided they are subtitled in English.

General Theme
Showing crimes against humanity through war crimes
Genres: Documentary
Content Restrictions
Pornography (child or adult), hate speech, promotion of racial, ethnic, gender-based, and/or religious bigotry, libel, and inciting violence and social disturbance will not be accepted.
Format:
Duration: 60 Seconds - 40 minutes
Medium: Digital film shot on a cell phone, video or movie camera

Timeline:
Call for Entries public announcement: NOW
Deadline to submit films: October 30th 2025

Film Competition awards announcement and ceremony at Music Hall Theater, Los Angeles : January 20th 2026

A five-member jury composed of individuals committed to immigrants will evaluate the films and select the award winners.