The program for the 45th Istanbul Film Festival, organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts, was announced on March 23, 2026. The decision not to include the “Where Are You, My Love?” section—dedicated to queer films—in this year’s festival program sparked a debate over censorship. Filmmakers and cultural and artistic workers reacted by stating that the decision constituted an exclusion of LGBTQ+ representation. Festival organizers had previously announced that they would reinstate the section. Ahead of the festival, which begins on April 9, some filmmakers have reiterated their call for a boycott.
March 24, 2026
Bianet