European Union Film Festival Returns to Lesotho for Second Edition in 2025

The European Union Film Festival (EUFF) is set to return to Lesotho for its second edition, running from October 15 to November 10, 2025. The festival will showcase a curated programme of European and African films, offering audiences a platform for cultural exchange and creative dialogue.

The festival was first launched in 2024 by the EU delegations to the Kingdoms of Lesotho and Eswatini, in partnership with Alliance Française de Maseru. Its debut was widely praised for introducing Basotho audiences to a diverse range of European cinema while fostering engagement between local and international filmmakers.

Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, EU Ambassador Ms. Mette Sunnergren emphasized the role of cultural relations in development. She noted that the European Film Festival is designed not only to entertain but also to strengthen connections between communities through shared cinematic experiences.

“It is more than a showcase of cinema. It is a celebration of cultural connection. By bringing screenings to communities across Lesotho, we are honouring the idea that stories told on screen can inspire understanding, creativity and friendship,” Ambassador Sunnergren said.

The 2025 edition will feature screenings in multiple venues, including urban and rural centres, to ensure broad accessibility. The programme includes a mix of feature films, documentaries, and short films that highlight both European and African narratives, offering audiences new perspectives and storytelling techniques.

In addition to film screenings, the festival will host workshops, panel discussions, and interactive sessions with filmmakers. These activities aim to develop local talent, encourage dialogue on contemporary issues, and provide opportunities for collaboration between European and Basotho creatives.

The EUFF 2025 reaffirms the European Union’s commitment to using cultural initiatives to build bridges between nations. By celebrating cinema as a tool for understanding and connection, the festival provides Basotho audiences with experiences that extend beyond entertainment, fostering mutual respect and creativity.

This year’s festival promises to deepen the cultural footprint of European cinema in Lesotho while providing a platform for African stories to reach international audiences. It represents an ongoing effort to promote cross-cultural dialogue and strengthen regional partnerships through the art of film.