The international conference “Breaking the Frame: Women of the Balkans Reimagine Cinema” brought together directors, producers, national film fund leaders, and European authorities from Albania, Kosovo, Greece, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Cyprus, France, and Eurimages.

Over 50 participants engaged in discussions on the regional audiovisual industry. They explored French and European practices that improved women’s representation in the sector. The conference also addressed the challenges faced by filmmakers, producers, and directors in the Balkans.

Three intensive panels examined the real barriers preventing women from directing their first films. They also discussed opportunities for regional co-productions and the path from voluntary recommendations to mandatory gender equality mechanisms in film financing.

Attending directors emphasized that women do not need to ask for a seat at the cinema table—they have built that table themselves.

The event focused on turning discussion into concrete action. Albanian Women in Audiovisual (AWA) organized it, with support from the French Embassy in Albania, KUB France Tirana, and the National Center of Cinematography (QKK). French Ambassador Catherine Suard and QKK Chairman Jonid Jorgji also attended.