IFF “Rolan” as a sustainable platform for intercultural dialogue

The project brought together the V4 countries, Armenia, Georgia, and Serbia through the Rolan International Film Festival for Children and Youth. The festival extended to regions like Lori, Shirak, and Gegharkunik, addressing the gap in cultural access where international content is often limited.

The applicant and partners created a meaningful cultural exchange by working with film production companies and children’s film festivals from across the V4 region. The festival featured both local productions and films from Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Slovakia, with a special V4 competition section highlighting these works. Visiting filmmakers from Visegrad countries conduct engaging masterclasses for young participants. In Lori and Shirak regions, art exhibitions and contests were organized that involved around 200 children in activities that introduced them to V4, Georgian, and Serbian cultures.

Choosing children and youth as the primary audience was particularly meaningful. Exposing young people to different cultural perspectives helps build lasting understanding. This project wasn’t just about short-term cultural activities – it was about nurturing future cross-regional cooperation based on shared experiences and values.

What makes this project stand out is its comprehensive approach to cultural exchange. Instead of simply screening films, they created diverse opportunities for engagement – from art competitions to direct interactions with filmmakers, reaching both urban centers and regional communities. The inclusion of Serbian participants for the first time shows how the project continues to grow and build new connections across these regions.