Human Rights Film Show & Discussion Held at Alliance Française Dhaka

Human rights film show held at Alliance Francaise Dhaka.

Alliance Française de Dhaka, in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Bangladesh and Institut Français, hosted a special Human Rights Film Show & Discussion on Thursday, 16 October 2025, at Auditorium Nouvelle Vague, Alliance Française, Dhaka.

The event featured a screening of 'Z' (1969), the acclaimed political thriller by renowned filmmaker Costa-Gavras, followed by an engaging discussion on democracy, justice, and the rule of law.

Set in a country grappling with political turmoil, 'Z' portrays the assassination of an opposition leader and the subsequent cover-up by state institutions, exposing the deep entanglement between politics, the military, and the judiciary. The film remains a timeless reflection on the fragility of democracy and the resilience of truth.

Following the screening, a panel discussion was held featuring eminent human rights activists and legal experts Barrister Sara Hossain and Barrister Jyotirmoy Barua. The conversation explored the film’s continuing relevance to Bangladesh’s socio-political landscape, drawing insightful parallels between the narrative and the country’s own democratic journey.

The speakers examined pressing issues such as the challenges facing the judiciary, the importance of upholding the rule of law, and the judiciary’s vital role in ensuring free and fair elections. They also discussed concerns surrounding enforced disappearances, data protection, and the need for stronger safeguards for human rights in the digital age.

The event, marking France’s Legal Day (Journée du Droit), highlighted the enduring importance of justice and accountability in strengthening democratic institutions. It was attended by members of the legal community, academics, students, and human rights advocates, who actively participated in the open discussion that followed. – Press release