San Sebastián Human Rights Film Festival Announces 2026 Dates and Open Submissions
The 23rd Donostia-San Sebastián Human Rights Film Festival is set to take place from April 23-30, 2026, at the Victoria Eugenia and Principal theaters in San Sebastián, Spain. The festival has unveiled its official image for the upcoming edition and has opened submissions for filmmakers.
Festival Image for 2026
The photograph featured on the 2026 poster was created by Emovere (Jotta Zubiría & Uxue Montero), with the poster design executed by the studio Ytantos. The festival consistently selects impactful and thought-provoking imagery for its annual posters, aiming for visuals that resonate with current realities and offer multiple interpretations.
Submission Details
Filmmakers can submit their work until January 15, 2026. The festival accepts both short films (under 20 minutes) and feature films (over 30 minutes) that address the subject of Human Rights. Films must have been completed after January 1, 2025.
Short films can be submitted via ShortFilmDepot, whereas feature films should be submitted through Movibeta. Submission fees are currently free.
Notification of acceptance will be communicated on April 10, 2026.
About the Festival
The Human Rights Film Festival of Donostia-San Sebastián, established in March 2003, is an initiative within the San Sebastian, Space for the Culture of Peace project. Its core mission is to raise awareness, encourage dialogue, and provide information to the public about human rights through the medium of cinema and other artistic expressions, promoting values such as solidarity, respect for life, peace, and freedom.
Youth Jury Opportunity
Registration to participate in the Youth Jury is currently open until March 26, 2026. The festival too offers school screenings designed to engage children and young people in discussions about human rights.
More information about the festival, including previous editions and awarded films, can be found on the official website: https://www.zinemaetagizaeskubideak.eus/en/