Berlinale: Films that raise awareness

For the second year in a row Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) will present the special award CINEMA fairbindet to a film that contributes in an exceptional way to discussions on global issues. Those issues include climate change, migration, education, the effects of war, human rights abuses and environmental damage. DW-TV presenter Dima Tarhini from the Arabic program will be part of the international jury.

One of the films competing for the prize: "Wilaya" by Spanish director Pedro Rosado

As the media partner, DW will report on the event and DW Akademie is arranging the ceremony and trailer. Federal Minister, Dirk Niebel, will present the award at noon on Sunday, February 19, 2012 in the Sony Center.

Discussions on human rights abuses and climate change

Nine films currently showing in the Berlinale’s various categories are competing for the prize. Nominations include films from Burkina Faso, the Philippines and Cuba. In addition to the 5,000 Euro director’s prize, the film will also be shown at cinemas throughout Germany. Last year’s award-winning Iranian film "Bad oh meh" was shown in 25 cities.

DW Journal presenter Dima Tarhini is part of the jury

"Films are a powerful medium and they make us perceive the world differently," says jury member Dima Tarhini. "The CINEMA fairbindet award provides an opportunity to explore other ideas and values as well as political and development-related issues that affect us. It’s a great honor to be part of an event that encourages dialogue between different cultures."

Other jury members on the panel are German actor Thomas Heinze, Egyptian filmmaker and producer Hala Galal, and German film producer Ernst Szebedits.