Cinema as a Bridge: Refugee Week Malta 2026 Hosts Impactful Film Programme

Cinema became a powerful space for reflection and shared humanity at the historic Palazzo De Piro in Mdina. Across three evenings, from 17 to 19 June 2026, the venue opened its doors for a profound cinematic experience co-produced by Refugee Week Malta and ADFC’s Rooftop Series Fringe.

Opening speech before the screening of the films. Pictures African Media Association Malta. All Rights Reserved

The opening night, which I attended on June 17th, featured a compelling lineup. The evening began with a curated short film programme featuring “Aziza”, “Hayat” and “Infancia Desterrada”. This was followed by a work-in-progress screening of “Minn Għawdex”, a short film by the Aditus Foundation that was developed through a collaborative and community-led process. True to the programme's mission, the first day concluded with an engaging discussion panel to unpack the themes of the selected works.

 The three-part film programme invited audiences to explore shared truths and the lived realities of displacement, belonging and resilience. The initiative was a collaborative effort organised by ADFC and Dance Beyond Borders, featuring valuable contributions from Christine X Gallery, MOAS and the Aditus Foundation.

The panel discussion. Photo African Media Association Malta. All Rights Reserved

Curated by filmmaker and producer Ornella Mutoni from Counterpoints Arts, the film programme served as a unique space for audiences to step into realities they might never otherwise encounter. Rather than simply screening movies, the event placed a strong emphasis on dialogue. 

The post-screening Q&A sessions with filmmakers and actors were specifically designed to help attendees process the complex narratives on screen, develop a deeper understanding of migration and actively think about possible ways to support affected communities.

Running alongside the screenings was an accompanying exhibition organised by Christine X Gallery and titled “Entry Denied”. This striking visual project transformed the Palazzo De Piro exhibition space into a conceptual border zone where absence became presence. Through a collection of installations, video works and archival materials, “Entry Denied” critically examined the realities of visa refusals and restricted mobility within the arts sector, perfectly complementing the overarching themes of the cinematic programme.

The exhibition. Photo African Media association Malta

Through carefully curated films and participatory works, the Refugee Week Malta film programme delivered an impactful three days of art, identity and solidarity, reminding audiences of the enduring power of shared human stories.