Berlinale Clarifies Position on Freedom of Expression, Including Showing Solidarity With Palestine: We ‘Welcome Different Points of View, Even if This Creates Tension or Controversy’

variety.com:

Ellise Shafer As the Berlinale prepares to kick off its 75th edition on Thursday, the festival has clarified its position on freedom of expression, including when it comes to showing solidarity with Palestine.

In a FAQ post on dialogue and exchange published on Tuesday, organizers — led by Tricia Tuttle in her debut as artistic director — addressed several expression-related topics that are sure to be hot-button as the festival takes place in the lead-up to Germany’s crucial general elections on Feb.

23. “All of our guests have a right to free speech within the bounds of the law. We also stand by the right of our filmmakers to talk about the impulses behind their work and their experiences of the world,” the festival said. “The Berlinale welcomes different points of view, even if this creates tension or controversy.

At the same time, we aim to create an environment in which we can listen and learn from each other, and we ask for respectful dialogue and a certain cultural sensitivity.