Visually-impaired version 
On November 27, 2024, a significant event as part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign was held at Maqsut Narikbayev University. Key events included showcases of 3 short films and a panel discussion that brought together filmmakers, activists, and students to discuss gender-based violence, which has become one of the most urgent and painful topics of the world today.
The opening of the event was carried out by the Ambassadors of France and Belgium to Kazakhstan and their welcoming speech. H.E. Ambassador Guioguet and H.E. Ambassador Vantigem stressed the importance of international cooperation in combating gender-based violence. They emphasised the need for joint efforts in order to create a safe environment where the rights of women and girls are protected and incidents of violence are addressed properly and systematically.
Dina Amrisheva, Head of Office a.i., UN Women Kazakhstan, Aynamkoz Eszhanova, director of the short film Gulmira, Asel Erzhanova, producer of the social project Pay the Bill, and Anna Ryl, Head of the Korgau Astana Crisis Centre featured as speakers. Special emphasis was placed on the importance of art as a medium that can raise awareness of social problems, deconstruct stereotypes and inspire change.
Aynamkoz Eszhanova spoke about her personal experience of filmmaking on difficult and sensitive topics:
‘Through cinema we can portray the inner world of the victims of violence, their experiences, and struggles. It is a mirror, a reflection of the society that can help to recognise the problem and start taking measures.’
In her film, she presents the topic of psychological abuse, highlighting the difficulty of recognising it and its effects on victims.
Anna Ryl shared her practical experience of working with victims of violence:
‘Ending the cycle of violence demands comprehensive support—psychological, social, and economic. Without this, women remain at risk, and society is responsible for offering them meaningful assistance.’
The participants also discussed the necessity of changing legislation and strengthening preventative measures. It was noted that the fight against gender-based violence is not only a state task, but also the task of every member of society. Involvement of all segments of the population and development of crisis centres are essential for the creation of a safe environment.
The event was concluded by a lively Q&A session in which participants discussed the role of art in changing the perception of violence and victim support. The organisers and participants hope that this event will become another contribution to the national campaign aimed at combating gender-based violence and protecting women’s rights.
