Video, Truth, and Expression in the Age of YouTube

The seminar explore how videos shot by eyewitnesses, frontline human rights defenders, and citizen journalists are changing the face of news and the fight for human rights worldwide.

With millions of people now empowered by the mobile phones in their pockets, and video exploding as a tool for expression, how do we make sense of the sheer volume of footage emerging from all corners of the world? What innovative strategies can we employ to secure attention and accountability?

How do we know which videos to trust, and how do we take advantage of emerging trends such as live video? How do we promote transparency and ensure that everyone, everywhere can exercise their right to record in public spaces, breaking through new forms of censorship? And what are the ethical implications of sharing images in a “Cameras Everywhere” world?

Drawing on its work in Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Latin America, Europe, and North America, WITNESS (witness.org) will present case studies illustrating the power of citizen media as a tool for change and a vehicle for free expression, as well as the challenges and opportunities posed by this new landscape.

This will be followed by a participatory discussion with WITNESS’ Sam Gregory (Program Director) and Arul Prakkash (Program Manager for Asia and the Pacific) about current uses of citizen media – and how we can maximize the impact of video for change around the world.

Venue: Filmens hus, Cinemateket, Dronningensgt. 16
Tickets: kr 80 (50 for students and Cinematek members). Get them here.

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This seminar will kick off the 2016 Human Rights, Human Wrongs Documentary Film Festival.

WITNESS is a global network that supports people using video for human rights. WITNESS trains and supports activists and citizens around the world to use video safely, ethically, and effectively to expose human rights abuse and fight for human rights change.