UN Launches 2025 PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival, Spotlights Young Filmmakers as Change Agents
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have officially launched the 2025 edition of the PLURAL+ Youth Video Festival, calling on young creatives under 25 from around the world to submit short films addressing some of society’s most pressing issues.
Now in its 17th year, the festival continues to serve as a global platform for youth-led storytelling that challenges stereotypes, promotes social cohesion, and sparks dialogue on topics such as migration, diversity, and human rights. For 2025, PLURAL+ introduces two new special categories: Combating Xenophobia and Discrimination and Promoting Responsible Narratives on Migration.
“As we launch the 2025 edition of PLURAL+, I am inspired by the power of young filmmakers to reshape narratives on migration, celebrate pluralism, and promote social inclusion,” said Miguel Ángel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for UNAOC. “Every story challenges stereotypes and reinforces our vision of One Humanity, where everyone belongs.”
The new category on Combating Xenophobia and Discrimination seeks videos that highlight mutual respect and address intolerance, including antisemitism, Islamophobia, Christianophobia, and other forms of hate based on religion or belief. Meanwhile, the Responsible Narratives on Migration category will reward films that combat online misinformation and promote ethical, fact-based storytelling on migration.
“Artists have a unique ability to shift perspectives and spark change that can improve people’s lives,” said Amy Pope, Director General of IOM. “I hope every young creative person out there will see PLURAL+ as an opportunity to tell an important migration story in a new way, to promote understanding and constructive dialogue, and help ensure that the voices of all people are heard, valued, and respected.”
Eligible participants — aged 12 and under, 13 to 17, and 18 to 25 — are encouraged to submit their films in any format, including fiction, documentary, and animation. One winning entry will be selected from each age group by an international jury.
Selected videos will be screened during the annual PLURAL+ Awards Ceremony later this year, streamed live on UN Web TV and the PLURAL+ website. The event will offer young filmmakers a rare opportunity to share their vision and creativity with a global audience.
Through this initiative, the UN hopes to empower young voices to drive conversations that foster inclusion and strengthen the shared values of humanity.
