Introduction
In a world increasingly shaped by migration, diversity, and the need for social inclusion, the voices of young people are more crucial than ever. The PLURAL+ Film Competition, an international youth video festival, provides a platform for these voices to be heard. Jointly organized by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), PLURAL+ invites young people from around the world to create and share original videos that address issues related to migration, diversity, and social inclusion. By doing so, the competition not only empowers youth as agents of social change but also fosters global dialogue on some of the most pressing issues of our time.
Background and History of PLURAL+
The PLURAL+ Film Competition was launched in 2009 as a response to the growing need for dialogue around migration, cultural diversity, and social inclusion. The competition was born out of a partnership between UNAOC and IOM, two organizations deeply committed to promoting understanding and cooperation among different cultures and communities. UNAOC, established in 2005, aims to bridge divides between societies and promote harmony among cultures, while IOM, founded in 1951, is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration.
From its inception, PLURAL+ sought to engage young people in these crucial conversations by giving them a platform to express their views and share their experiences. Recognizing the power of media in shaping perceptions and attitudes, the organizers believed that youth-produced videos could play a significant role in challenging stereotypes, promoting positive narratives, and encouraging intercultural dialogue. Over the years, PLURAL+ has grown into a global movement, attracting thousands of submissions from young filmmakers across the world and impacting communities far beyond the competition itself.
The Structure and Objectives of PLURAL+
PLURAL+ is open to young people aged 25 and under, who are invited to submit videos of up to five minutes in length that explore themes related to migration, diversity, and social inclusion. The competition is divided into three age categories: up to 12 years old, 13 to 17 years old, and 18 to 25 years old. This structure ensures that the voices of young people at different stages of their lives are heard and that a wide range of perspectives is represented.
The primary objective of PLURAL+ is to amplify the voices of young people and recognize them as powerful agents of positive social change. By supporting the distribution of youth-produced media, the competition aims to challenge the negative stereotypes and misconceptions that often surround migration and diversity. In doing so, PLURAL+ fosters a more inclusive and tolerant global society, where different cultures and communities are valued and respected.
Beyond the competition itself, PLURAL+ seeks to create opportunities for young filmmakers to connect with audiences, policymakers, and influencers. Winning videos are screened at festivals, conferences, and events around the world, providing a platform for the young creators to share their messages with a global audience. This exposure not only empowers the filmmakers but also inspires others to engage in the conversation and take action in their own communities.
Global Impact of the PLURAL+ Film Competition
The impact of the PLURAL+ Film Competition extends far beyond the participants and their immediate communities. By addressing issues related to migration, diversity, and social inclusion, the competition contributes to global efforts to promote understanding and cooperation among different cultures. The competition’s emphasis on youth-produced content ensures that the perspectives and experiences of young people are brought to the forefront of these conversations, influencing both public opinion and policy.
One of the most significant aspects of PLURAL+ is its ability to challenge and change narratives around migration. In many parts of the world, migrants are often portrayed negatively in the media, leading to fear, discrimination, and social exclusion. Through their videos, young filmmakers participating in PLURAL+ offer alternative narratives that highlight the positive contributions of migrants to society, emphasize the importance of cultural diversity, and advocate for social inclusion. These videos serve as powerful tools for combating prejudice and fostering empathy, helping to create a more just and inclusive world.
PLURAL+ also plays a crucial role in promoting social inclusion by giving a voice to marginalized and underrepresented communities. Many of the videos submitted to the competition focus on the experiences of migrants, refugees, and minority groups, shedding light on the challenges they face and the resilience they demonstrate. By sharing these stories, PLURAL+ helps to raise awareness about the issues affecting these communities and encourages audiences to take action in support of social justice and equality.
The competition’s global reach and influence are evident in the wide range of topics covered by the submitted videos. Over the years, participants have explored issues such as the impact of migration on families, the challenges of integration and belonging, the richness of cultural diversity, and the importance of social inclusion in building peaceful societies. These videos not only reflect the concerns and aspirations of young people but also provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of migration and diversity in different parts of the world.
Success Stories and Notable Contributions
Since its launch, PLURAL+ has inspired countless young filmmakers to use their creativity and storytelling skills to make a difference in the world. Many of these participants have gone on to achieve significant recognition for their work, both within and beyond the competition.
For example, in 2018, a video titled Our Common Enemy, created by a group of young filmmakers from Bangladesh, won the PLURAL+ International Jury Award. The video, which addressed the issue of religious intolerance, received widespread acclaim for its powerful message of unity and peace. The filmmakers were invited to screen their video at various international events, including the Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, where they had the opportunity to share their message with global leaders and policymakers.
Another notable success story is that of the 2016 PLURAL+ Award-winning video The Dream of the Young African Migrants, created by a group of young migrants from Senegal. The video, which tells the story of the challenges faced by African migrants as they seek better opportunities in Europe, resonated with audiences around the world and sparked important conversations about the realities of migration. The filmmakers were invited to participate in various international forums, where they advocated for the rights and dignity of migrants.
These success stories highlight the transformative power of PLURAL+ in empowering young people to use their voices and talents to make a difference in the world. By providing a platform for these voices to be heard, PLURAL+ not only supports the personal and professional development of young filmmakers but also contributes to the broader goal of creating a more inclusive and compassionate global society.
The Broader Perspective: PLURAL+ in the Context of Global Challenges
In the context of today’s global challenges, such as rising nationalism, xenophobia, and social inequality, the PLURAL+ Film Competition takes on even greater significance. The competition’s focus on migration, diversity, and social inclusion directly addresses some of the most pressing issues of our time, offering a counter-narrative to the divisive rhetoric that often dominates public discourse.
By engaging young people in these critical conversations, PLURAL+ helps to build a new generation of leaders who are committed to promoting understanding, empathy, and cooperation among different cultures and communities. The competition also serves as a reminder that, despite the challenges we face, there is immense power in the creativity, resilience, and determination of young people to drive positive change.
The global impact of PLURAL+ is further amplified by the partnerships and collaborations it fosters. Through its alliances with various organizations, institutions, and media outlets, PLURAL+ ensures that the voices of young people are heard not just within their communities, but on a global stage. This network of support helps to maximize the reach and influence of the competition, ensuring that the messages of inclusion and diversity resonate far and wide.
Conclusion
The PLURAL+ Film Competition is more than just a video contest; it is a powerful platform for young people to express their views, share their experiences, and contribute to the global dialogue on migration, diversity, and social inclusion. By recognizing youth as agents of positive social change, PLURAL+ empowers the next generation to challenge stereotypes, promote understanding, and build a more inclusive and compassionate world. As the competition continues to grow and evolve, its impact will undoubtedly continue to shape the way we think about and engage with these critical issues. Through the creativity and determination of young filmmakers, PLURAL+ is helping to create a future where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is embraced, and every voice is heard.
