Hivos Donateursavond with Behind the Numbers

‘In some countries, making or starring in a film is an activist act’. Speaking is Charlotte van Dalfsen, communications specialist at Hivos. Also in 2023, Hivos supports – already for the fifth time – the Queer Film Festival Utrecht.

Hivos is committed to greater equality worldwide. Standing up for the rights of the rainbow community is one of its pillars. They also fight for women’s rights, among other things, and for climate justice. ‘These topics may seem far apart to some people,’ says Charlotte, ‘but it all has to do with inequality and injustice. Inequality in the world is increasing, partly because of the climate crisis. And vulnerable groups are often more likely to bear the brunt of crises.’We work locally as much as possible, in some 40 countries worldwide. We focus on strengthening local organisations, initiatives and movements.’

The power of film
The commitment to greater acceptance, visibility and inclusion of the rainbow community is something Hivos and QFFU have in common. Hivos operates in countries around the world and QFFU programmes films from all over the world. These are often countries where fighting for equal rights (for the rainbow community, for women) is often not safe.

‘Supporting QFFU has a clear substantive link for us. In our work and projects, we also work a lot with artists and filmmakers. We strongly believe in the power of film. To drive conversations in a narrative way. To increase visibility and as a way to encourage freedom of expression. In many countries where we work, LGBTQ+ topics are taboo and forbidden. It is an activist and courageous act there to make a (rainbow) film, or to participate in it as an actor. A lot comes together in a festival like QFFU. We are therefore a proud partner of this beautiful festival.

Behind the Numbers
Hivos recently made its own film in cooperation with Human Rights in the Picture. The documentary Behind the Numbers follows an intersex person from Zimbabwe, a lesbian couple from Bangkok and a trans person from the Netherlands who all encounter the same barriers of heteronormative society for different reasons. ‘The three stories show how important it is to be accepted. What I like about this project is that we worked with filmmakers from local communities to portray the stories. Local ownership, fair opportunities and economic development are key focal points in all our work.’

Behind the Numbers will be screened during QFFU during Hivos’ donor evening, an evening where they want to thank their donors and engage them in what Hivos does through a concrete event. The evening is open to donors of Hivos.

If you are not a donor, you can see the documentary on Wednesday 6 September at Bar Beton at 20:30.

Tekst: Joris van den Ring-Bax