Georgia: film professionals protecting their independence

Amid tense political times, film professionals in Georgia are organising to protect their livelihoods and independence. The recent creation of the Documentary Association Georgia (DOCA Georgia)  illustrates this drive. UNI Europa’s Media, Entertainment and Arts sector was invited to support its first steps. 

Georgian film-making has experienced growing acclaim over the past number of years, featuring prominently in international film festivals. Its national film fund has been key to seeding this success. However, recent changes have led to growing concern among film workers. The government has moved to tighten control over the funding agency and recently placed a close ally at its helm.  

It is to a background of political tension that these documentary workers are organizing to secure funding and protect their editorial independence. Earlier this year, a documentary exploring the extravagant collection of trees of the former prime-minister, billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, was notably censored.  

DOCA Georgia “aims to build a strong and sustainable community of documentary film professionals” and “sets grounds for a common voice to foster creativity and freedom of expression, improve policy and build audiences.” DOCA Georgia received support from the Copenhagen-based IMS for capacity-building in its first months of existence.