Film termed critical tool for social change

Experts discuss effects of various mediums on alerting stereotypes

ISLAMABAD:

Films, being both audio and visual medium, have a deep impact on human psychology and can therefore be used to change the way people think about an issue.

Speakers at a webinar "The Role of Film in Social Change" said films can change perspective to raise awareness for the positive development of the society.

The panel discussion sought to explore the way that gender norms and stereotypes can be changed and negotiated through diverse mediums, including art, music, film, sports, awareness campaigns and participatory dialogue towards a more open, equal and gender inclusive society.

The panel was joined by renowned filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy, Unesco Representative Patricia McPhillips, and Art Critic Nusrat Khawaja. Federal Secretary for Human Rights Rabiya Javeri Agha moderated the online discourse hosted by Ministry of Human Rights and Unesco.

The webinar concluded the "Reels for Rights" film festival that was conducted online from August 4 to 25, a collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Human Rights and the European Union. The festival sought to increase awareness and foster dialogue related to critical human rights issues in Pakistan.

It showcased several insightful films on a range of societal issues including female empowerment, education, criminal justice, transgender rights, and the prevailing human rights crisis in IIOJK.

The final panel discussion explored the power of film to influence societal perspectives and attitudes through awareness raising, challenging prevailing norms and thereby leading to social change.

Chinoy discussed the importance of film as a dominant medium to change attitudes and perspectives towards social justice and human rights issues by arousing empathy in the hearts of diverse audiences.

McPhillips spoke about the significance of film and documentaries as a motivational tool to raise awareness, educate populations and create practical innovations that can be positive tools to promote social change.

She also highlighted the impact of social media as a new and accessible platform for the youth to come forward.

Nusrat Khawaja shared similar views about the power of film as an influential agent of social change and talked about using film and education to promote positivity, tolerance, and gender equity rather than reinforcing negative gender stereotypes.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 27^th, 2020.