Norwegian Film “Safe House” Wins the Prestigious ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal at 56th International Film Festival of India
“Safe House” highlights moral dilemmas faced by those striving to uphold humanity amid chaos
28 November 2025: The Norwegian film “Safe House”, directed by Eirik Svensson, has been awarded the ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025) for its outstanding contribution to cinema that promotes peace, non-violence, and intercultural dialogue. The award was received by Manouj Kadaamh, Honorary Representative of ICFT–UNESCO Paris on behalf of the film’s director Eirik Svensson and presented by MD, NFDC, Shri Prakash Magdum.
Set over 15 intense hours inside a Doctors Without Borders hospital in Bangui during the 2013 civil war in the Central African Republic, “Safe House” is a gripping, humane drama inspired by true events. The film explores the ethics of care, courage, and responsibility as a team of aid workers grapples with impossible choices in a war zone. Through real-time storytelling, the film highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the moral dilemmas faced by those striving to uphold humanity amid chaos.
Instituted in collaboration with the International Council for Film, Television, and Audiovisual Communication (ICFT) and UNESCO, this award honours films that reflect ideals of tolerance, intercultural dialogue, and culture of peace.
The jury commended “Safe House” for its powerful, authentic depiction of moral courage and humanitarian values under extreme pressure, as well as its ability to transcend cultural boundaries and connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. The film’s real-time narrative, grounded in true events, highlights the ethical dilemmas faced by aid workers in conflict zones, emphasizing the universal themes of compassion, responsibility, and the sanctity of human life. Its restrained, suspenseful storytelling and the lead performance by Kristine Kujath Thorp strengthened its impact, making it a compelling choice for the ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal.
Eirik Svensson, a new generation Norwegian filmmaker, has previously received acclaim for his earlier works, including “One Night in Oslo” and “Harajuku.” “Safe House” had its world premiere as the opening feature of the 48th Göteborg Film Festival 2025, where it won the Audience Dragon Award for Best Nordic Film.
The award underscores IFFI’s mission to showcase global cinema that fosters compassion, unity, and dialogue among cultures, affirming cinema’s transformative power to build bridges across societies.
About ICFT – UNESCO Gandhi Medal
Launched during the 46th IFFI, the ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal honours films that not only hold high artistic and cinematic standards but also encourage ethical reflection on society’s most pressing issues. The award was created to foster a deeper understanding of humanity’s shared values through the transformative power of cinema.
The ICFT UNESCO Gandhi Medal is more than just an award; it is a celebration of the power of film to inspire, educate, and unite.
