Filmmakers from over 110 countries have eagerly submitted their short films for consideration in the prestigious 5th edition of the WHO Health for All Film Festival. The submissions cover a diverse range of themes, including climate change, refugees, tobacco, and gender-based violence. With more than 900 entries received, the festival has garnered widespread attention from both filmmakers and audiences worldwide.

A selection committee has meticulously curated a shortlist of 60 films, which will undergo rigorous review by a distinguished jury comprising international artists and health experts. The winners of this esteemed competition will be announced on May 26, 2024, following careful deliberation by the jury.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the significance of storytelling through film in fostering a deeper understanding of health-related issues. He emphasizes the festival's role in raising awareness about diverse health challenges and advancing WHO's mission of ensuring universal access to health as a fundamental human right.

This year's festival jury boasts an impressive lineup of professionals, artists, and activists, including renowned figures such as Sharon Stone (USA), Alfonso Herrera (Mexico), Nandita Das (India), Apolline Traore (Burkina Faso), Yusra Mardini (Syria), and Mário Macilau (Mozambique). Together with WHO senior experts, they will evaluate the shortlisted films across four competition categories: universal health coverage, emergencies, refugee and migrant health, better health and physical activity, and very short films.

Audiences are invited to engage with the festival by watching and commenting on their favorite shortlisted films, using the hashtag #Film4Health to champion their selections on social media platforms.

In the weeks ahead, the jury will carefully assess the shortlisted films and recommend seven winners to Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who will make the final decision. The much-anticipated Awards Ceremony, scheduled for May 26, will unveil three "Grand Prix" winners and four special film prizes, setting the stage for an inspiring celebration of cinematic excellence and health advocacy.

Since its inception in 2020, the WHO Health for All Film Festival has received an overwhelming response, with over 5000 films submitted by individuals from diverse backgrounds, including patients, health workers, activists, students, and professional filmmakers worldwide.