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Forbidden Voices
IDFA 2012

Forbidden Voices

Forbidden Voices
Barbara Miller
Switzerland
2012
96 min
International Premiere
Festival history

On the Internet, their voices are skillfully shielded. But the famous bloggers Yoani Sánchez, Zeng Jinyan and Farnaz Seifi aren't afraid of the dictatorial regimes in their respective home countries of Cuba, China and Iran. With indefatigable determination, they keep people around the world informed about the abuses taking place in their countries. We get to witness the highs and lows of their lives. What do you do if you want more attention for women's rights in Iran, only to discover that Google intentionally blocks the word "woman" in searches? How do bloggers fight back against the "Great Firewall of China," protected by 40,000 cyber cops? The unequal struggle of these cyber feminists is an exhaustive one and takes its toll on their personal lives. Following a stint in prison for "acting against national security," Iranian journalist Farnaz Seifi felt compelled to flee her country. With help from Reporters without Borders, she continues her mission from the Western world. It's not surprising that these fearless ladies were named among the world's most influential people by . Will these women ever achieve the equality that they so desperately want? For now, there are still thousands of similar voices in prison or under house arrest.

Credits
Director
Involved TV Channel
    SRF,
    ARTE
    SRF,
    ARTE
World Sales
    Accent Films International Ltd.
    Accent Films International Ltd.
Screening copy
    Das Kollektiv fur audiovisuelle Werke GmbH
    Das Kollektiv fur audiovisuelle Werke GmbH