Are you ready to challenge disinformation and build stronger, more inclusive communities?
The British Council in Bulgaria, the Bulgarian Family Planning Association, the French Cultural Institute Sofia and the Sofia International Film Festival invite you to an engaging event as part of the Credible Local Voices project.
This unique event will bring together experts, activists and the general public to discuss the challenges and opportunities in fostering critical thinking and social inclusion. The programme includes insightful discussions, networking opportunities and a thought-provoking film screening.
Programme
16.15–16.30 | Registration
Session 1: Presenting the main partners and results of the Credible Local Voices project component in Bulgaria (16.30–17.30)
This session will focus on the Credible Local Voices project’s achievements, challenges and future directions. Civil society representatives and project partners will exchange ideas and explore new approaches to combating disinformation.
- Language: Bulgarian (no translation provided)
- Target audience: Civil society organisations and project partners
- Register now: https://ow.ly/m5ux50Vgykr
17.30–18.00 | Round table discussion: Critical thinking and social inclusion opposing disinformation – what is the way forward?
An open discussion with sector experts on tackling disinformation and promoting inclusive narratives.
18.00–19.00 | Networking and exchange of contacts
A chance to connect with fellow participants over snacks and a glass of wine.
Session 2: Film screening and discussion (19.00–21.00)
Part of The Engine of Truth – the newest section in the programme of the 29th SIFF – screenings and discussions, realised in partnership with the British Council.
Join us for the screening of Antidote, a gripping documentary directed by James Jones. The film explores the dangers faced by those who expose disinformation and corruption in Russia. Following the screening, a Q&A session with one of the film’s producers will provide deeper insights into the story.
- Language: English (subtitled in Bulgarian, with translation provided)
- Target Audience: General public
- Register now: https://ow.ly/m5ux50Vgykr
About Credible Local Voices
The Credible Local Voices project aims to counter disinformation by developing critical thinking skills and fostering inclusive communities. Through training, workshops and cultural events such as film screenings, the project empowers individuals to analyse media narratives, engage in meaningful dialogue and contribute to positive social change. The initiative operates in Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Hungary, working with NGOs, civil society organisations and cultural institutions.
In Bulgaria, we’ve launched a range of activities, bringing together voices from different sectors and communities. We are thankful to partner with EUNIC Bulgaria Cluster members and specifically want to thank the French Institute in Bulgaria, the Goethe institute and the Polish Cultural Institute for supporting some of the events and film screenings:
- Interactive Workshops and Training Sessions: Led by the Bulgarian Family Planning Association (BFPA) and part of the Digital Children project, these workshops empower high school students and young people from urban, rural and vulnerable communities to become peer trainers and lead small-scale campaigns against disinformation.
- Stakeholder Meetings and Discussions: In close collaboration with BFPA – facilitated discussions and joint events with institutions, NGOs, media and academia to share ideas and present ongoing activities that build critical thinking and social cohesion.
- The Engine of Truth (Sofia International Film Festival): A dedicated programme at the 29th Sofia International Film Festival, featuring documentary screenings, Q&A sessions, masterclasses and networking events in partnership with the British Council.
- Sofia Documental Against Disinformation: Screenings of thematic documentaries, followed by discussions with film crews, guest lecturers, young filmmakers and content creators – creating a space for open conversations on current social issues.
- Five Films For Freedom Campaign: In partnership with the British Embassy and Single Step Foundation, this campaign highlights global themes of equality, diversity and inclusion through the power of film, fostering dialogue and inspiring social change.
About the film Antidote
Antidote by director James Jones, which premiered in Toronto, is a film that continues to change – with added facts and commentary on reality. It was included in the programme of one of the world’s largest documentary forums in Copenhagen in March. It is a unique story of people who, by revealing extremely important pieces of information and using their knowledge and journalistic skills, confront Putin’s quest to destroy anyone who dares to challenge him.
Among the film’s characters are an informer who was involved in a programme to develop powerful new poisons; political activist Vladimir Kara-Murza, who survived two attempts to be poisoned and was subsequently imprisoned while his wife did her best to get him released; and the Bulgarian journalist Hristo Grozev, who for years as a member of the community of independent investigative Bellingcat journalists revealed some of Putin’s darkest dealings.
Events on a global scale are unfolding in a critical direction for world peace – which is why it is vital that we present documentary works such as Antidote, dedicated to people willing to risk everything to change the course of history.
The film will be presented by the producer Vivien Jones and the Bulgarian audience will be the second in the world, after the audience at the CPH:DOX festival, who will have a chance to see the work in a new, enriched version. Immediately after the screening in Sofia, there will be a discussion with the producer. Be part of a movement that empowers individuals to think critically and challenge disinformation.
Registration
To take part in the event, complete the online registration form by Thursday 27 March 2025 (12.00 midday):
Secure your spot today!