Berlinale Posts Q&A Setting Out Position On Freedom Of Expression, Antisemitism & Palestine As 75th Edition Unfolds In Politically-Charged Times

deadline.com:

The Berlinale has posted a set of questions and answers on its home page laying out its position on freedom of expression, antisemitism and support for Palestinian, as it gears up for the opening of its 75th edition on Thursday against a politically charged backdrop.

The post shuts down a rumor that the wearing of clothes or symbols showing solidarity with Palestine is prohibited at the festival but does caution against the use of certain language around the Israel-Gaza conflict.

The 75th edition follows a tumultuous 2024 festival, riven by internal disputes, firstly over invites to members of the far-right, anti-immigrant AfD party, then over its stance on the war in Gaza, which spilled into the closing night when winners and jury members criticized Israel’s military campaign, sparking accusations of antisemitism by local politicians.

This year’s edition is set to unfold in equally choppy political waters. The Middle East conflict looks likely to loom large yet again with pro-Palestinian organization Strike Germany renewing calls for cultural workers to boycott the festival and European Film Market in recent weeks, although it remains to be seen whether this campaign gathers traction.