CPH:DOX Summit Explores Future of Documentary Filmmaking and Media Accessibility

Copenhagen documentary festival CPH:DOX, in partnership with Documentary Campus and the Danish Producers' Association, will host a Summit on March 24th.

The Summit will gather politicians, industry leaders, and professionals to engage in discussions on the evolving landscape of the documentary industry. Its primary focus is "cross-sector dialogues that empower decision-makers to confront critical issues in documentary filmmaking and audiovisual media, acknowledging their vital role in shaping public discourse," as stated in a press release.

Producer and media consultant Mark Edwards will curate the event, which is open to accredited guests.

"The Summit aims to investigate how documentary films transcend fact-checking by fostering emotional connections with audiences and enhancing public awareness of pressing global concerns," the festival stated. "In a polarized society, ensuring access to diverse and authentic storytelling will be emphasized as vital for supporting democratic involvement."

The Summit will also explore media accessibility as a fundamental human right and advocate for a "bill of rights for audiences" to guarantee access to a broad spectrum of voices and viewpoints.

Key speakers include investigative journalist Christo Grozev of Der Spiegel and "The Insider," and Rasmus Kleis Nielsen, University of Copenhagen professor of communication and director of the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at Oxford University. They will share insights on the media landscape in Europe.

Helena Kennedy, chair of the media freedom legal experts panel and director of the International Bar Association's Human Rights Institute, will deliver a keynote address on media accessibility as a human right.

Former Sundance Institute executive director Keri Putnam and Council for European Public Space managing director Matthias Pfeffer will discuss strategies for strengthening connections between filmmakers, content creators, and audiences across Europe and beyond.

CPH:DOX managing director Katrine Kiilgaard emphasized the Summit's importance, given the ongoing changes in Europe's media landscape. "With the rise of streaming services and social media disrupting traditional broadcasters, innovation and regulatory adjustments are in high demand," she said. "With social media now serving as the primary news source for many Europeans, the necessity for cooperation in building a more comprehensive and resilient media ecosystem has reached unprecedented levels."

Documentary Campus managing director Donata von Perfall emphasized the value of collaboration between media professionals and policymakers. "We shape a future where innovation, inclusivity, and creativity flourish when they work together closely," she said. "Culture provides a direct connection to the public. We share the responsibility of ensuring that audiences receive factual media formats that reflect diverse views and promote positive change."

Anna Porse Nielsen, CEO of the Danish Producers' Association, highlighted the challenges facing documentary film financing. "Documentaries have always struggled to secure funding, but never as severely as they do now," she said. "At the same time, documentaries have never been more crucial. We must ensure the survival of production firms and their capacity to continue delivering stories from all walks of life to both large and small screens."

The Summit will del