Films 4 Peace Foundation has organised a two day film screening and award giving programme which started from Monday at 4:00pm. The organisation is working towards gaining world peace through films. At the inauguration ceremony Information Minister and Awami League campaign secretary Dr Hasan Mahmud said, "There are rumours of sacrifices being made for the construction of Padma Bridge, which were put through social media, and resulted in the death of innocent people through mass panic of intolerant and people. There is a need for tolerance and peace awareness."
‘Peace Film Festival 2019’ took place at Shawkat Osman Auditorium in the capital's Public Library. The minister said, “In the last few years, the canvas of information flow has changed radically. Previously, people had to resort to newspapers to report their views and complaints. Now anyone can use their social media to share their message to millions of people.” He added, “In the last few years, the information media in this country has expanded freely. In addition to the media organisations, people are also getting information from social media. Therefore, even if temporary rumours are spread with misleading or untrue information, they are not permanently effective.”
Stating that the free flow of information can play a powerful role in preventing militancy, extremism or communal violence, the Information Minister also said, "The film can play a vital role in reducing militancy, extremism and preserving peace and humanity." Hasan said, "Even in this age of information and communication technology and social media, there is no alternative to film to develop humanity and move society on a path to peace." It is possible to avoid turmoil and harassment if you are committed to the cause of humanity and peace.
Shaheen Anam, director of the Manusher Jonno Foundation, Prof CR Abrar, filmmaker Kawsar Ahmed Chowdhury and executive director of Films 4 Peace Foundation Parvez Siddiqui spoke on the role of the film in favour of peace, chaired by the organization's director Rokeya Prachi.
Twenty-two short film exhibitions were held at the Film Festival on Monday and Tuesday from 4:00 pm to 9:00pm on Monday and Tuesday.
