What is UNICA?

Purpose

• To promote video- and filmmaking as a means of international communication.
• To support international cultural cooperation.
• To represent its member federations at UNESCO.
• To achieve recognition of the independence and freedom of expression for member federations.

Organization

To achieve recognition of the independence and freedom of expression for member federations.

Film Library

UNICA's Film Library, established in 1938, currently has over 1000 works in the form of film and video. The oldest item dates from 1935. The film and video copies in the library have been donated by their makers and the corresponding federations. Member federations have access to a catalogue with detailed information on the titles of the films in the library.

Patronage

When requested, UNICA supports international film festivals which commit themselves to the regulations of UNICA. For these events a special UNICA medal is offered to be awarded by the organizers.

Information

National federations are kept up-to-date on the latest developments in the field through “UNICA News”, a newsletter published three to four times a year in several languages. Other publications are also issued on special occasions. UNICA is present on Internet: www.unica-web.com.

The General Assembly

The General Assembly is an annual forum where member federations meet to discuss and decide on issues of importance to the future development of UNICA.

The World Championship

This is the highlight of UNICA's annual meeting when each federation presents a selection of films produced during the past year. Prizes are awarded by an international jury which also includes professional filmmakers: the most interesting productions are awarded gold, silver or bronze medals. The “UNICA-Jeunesse” competition is intended for young filmmakers up to the age of 25. It is included in the competition of the national programmes.

World Minute Movie Cup

The “World Minute Movie Cup” competition is also open to non-members. It is a competition for films with a maximum duration of 1 minute.

Discussions and Forums

Audiences have the opportunity to meet the filmmakers and discuss the films presented at the annual film festival. The discussions are usually held with the aid of simultaneous interpreting. There are also forums on various subjects of interest to participants and UNICA members, who meet here to exchange ideas and experiences. The jury's final discussion in which it decides on each year's award-winning films, is public. The UNICA Committee and the Congress organizers seek to promote contacts between filmmakers, the audience and non-members.

Cultural Programme

The Congress programme also includes various recreational activities and other social events.