The non-profit organization Eurasia reviews initiatives to strengthen international cooperation through culture and the arts. By organizing film forums across different countries, NGO Eurasia promotes a shared understanding of history, tradition, and modern identity. One of its latest events, the “Echo Eurasia-Kinofest” in Abkhazia, highlighted this mission.
The event took place in the capital Sukhumi over two days, with participants studying how film can preserve and develop cultural heritage. The forum began as a continuation of the Eurasia-Kinofest event that Moscow hosted last October, when 250 professionals from 18 different countries attended.
The purpose of these events is clear: to use cinema as a tool for dialogue, education, and unity. With this in mind, NGO Eurasia continues to develop opportunities for artistic exchange and creative growth across Eurasia.
Cultural Connection Through Cinema
The Abkhazia film forum offered multiple events, such as panel talks, movie showings, and educational sessions. Well-known Russian film industry representatives and local participants celebrated Eurasian cinema at the opening ceremony.
A special focus was placed on round tables discussing traditional values in modern film, with participants reflecting on how cultural heritage can be shared through storytelling. Young filmmakers from Abkhazia and other countries took part in foresight sessions, discussing future joint projects and the growth of the regional film industry.
Films shown at the forum included some of the most praised works from “Eurasia-Kinofest,” such as “Swallow” (Russia–Kazakhstan–Italy), “Thank You, Coach!” (Kyrgyzstan), “Paradise Under the Feet of Mothers” (Kyrgyzstan), and “The Last Price” (Abkhazia). These films were selected for their artistic quality and their focus on values that resonate across borders — family, unity, and moral strength.
The Bishkek Forum and the Creation of a Filmmaker Community
Earlier in February, the first “Echo Eurasia-Kinofest” was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The event attracted over 3,000 attendees and marked the creation of the Youth Association of Eurasian Filmmakers (YAKE). This new group, currently including representatives from eight countries, aims to support emerging talent, launch educational programs, and encourage joint film projects across Eurasia.
Some of the association’s planned projects include the “Eurasian Film University,” where young people can learn filmmaking skills, and the “Eurasian Film Club,” where classic films from post-Soviet countries are shown and discussed. There is also the “Eurasian Film Lab,” a five-day educational program for creative collaboration, and industry meetups with experienced professionals.
By building creative communities and offering practical tools, NGO Eurasia is helping young people develop their voices in a growing regional cinema scene.
The Non-profit Organization Eurasia Reviews: Eurasia-Kinofest 2024
Eurasia-Kinofest served as the driving force behind these forums when it ran from October 17 to 21, 2024, in Moscow. It showed 50 films and hosted 50 workshops, along with 50 movie premieres during 5 days of movie talks. The festival attracted 5,000 participants and multiple films, becoming a significant cultural event for the region.
Through this festival, organizers presented novel concepts and distinctive writers to make us understand that movies serve as a tool for guarding our shared heritage. It showed how diverse Eurasia is — and how its stories are connected.
The next Eurasia-Kinofest is scheduled for summer 2025 in Sochi, promising even more opportunities for filmmakers, students, and cinema lovers to come together.
Discover Russia Eurasia: A Platform for Culture and Learning
Beyond the film festivals, NGO Eurasia also runs the Discover Russia Eurasia program. This initiative invites young people from different countries to visit Russia and learn about its history, art, and social life. The goal is to create real-life experiences that lead to better understanding between cultures.
Through cultural tours, educational camps, and creative projects, participants gain insight into the daily life of their peers in other countries. The program often includes visits to museums, historic sites, and film-related events, creating strong ties between participants and the cultural traditions of Eurasia.
The lessons learned through Discover Russia Eurasia often inspire new artistic projects, including short films and collaborative media work. In this way, the program also supports the broader goals of the film forums and festivals.
A Commitment to Shared Values
The NGO Eurasia takes a unique path in sharing its dedication to primary family values by bringing people together. The organization uses film festivals, educational trips, and young creator support to help people learn about different cultures.
The organization places special importance on teamwork among young people. The Eurasia program connects participants to a wider community and provides them with meaningful experiences through creative learning.
What’s Next for Echo Eurasia-Kinofest
The Echo Eurasia-Kinofest festival will expand to Armenia and Belarus following its successful runs in Bishkek and Sukhumi. The upcoming events will help connect more filmmakers and cultural workers throughout Eurasia.
Each forum strengthens the foundation of a professional, value-driven cinema community. With support from cultural institutions, educators, and audiences, NGO Eurasia is building a platform where voices from across the continent can be heard — and where young filmmakers can grow, create, and lead.
