The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has opened submissions for the 2025 edition of its Short Film Contest, inviting young Nigerian filmmakers to use their creativity to raise awareness about human trafficking.
This initiative is part of global activities marking the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed annually on July 30. The day offers a platform for artists, activists, and policymakers to reflect on progress and ongoing challenges in the fight against human trafficking.
This year’s global theme, “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime—End the Exploitation,” highlights the critical role of law enforcement and the justice system in dismantling trafficking networks while ensuring a victim-centered approach.
In Nigeria, the IOM is launching the third edition of its Short Film Contest on Combating Trafficking in Persons as part of a national awareness campaign.
Awards
Winners will receive the following prizes:
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First Prize: $2,500
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Second Prize: $1,500
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Third Prize: $1,000
Eligibility
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Open to Nigerian filmmakers under the age of 35.
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Films should focus on themes such as trafficking in persons, migrants’ rights, media, and social justice.
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While participants in the video can be of any age, the story must reflect the perspective of the young filmmaker(s) on human trafficking and counter-trafficking.
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Entrants must have played an active role in the film’s production (as a director, writer, editor, actor, cinematographer, etc.).
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Submissions can be of any genre—including animation, documentary, music video, comedy, and more.
Technical Requirements
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If selected, a digital copy of the film must be submitted in MOV (preferred) or MP4 format. HD resolution (1920×1080) is preferred but not mandatory.
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Films must be uploaded to a video-streaming platform (e.g., YouTube), and the link must be submitted in the application form. Ensure that the link is accessible and not set to private.
How to Apply
Submit your film and all required materials through the official application link.
Deadline
All entries must be submitted by July 11, 2025.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has announced the 2025 edition of its Short Film Contest targeting young Nigerian filmmakers to raise awareness about human trafficking. This initiative aligns with the global observance of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, emphasizing the theme “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime—End the Exploitation.” The contest promotes a victim-centered approach to eradicating trafficking networks.
The Nigerian edition invites filmmakers under 35 to submit films on themes like trafficking, migrants’ rights, and social justice. Winners will receive prizes: $2,500 for first place, $1,500 for second, and $1,000 for third. Films, which can be any genre, must reflect a young filmmaker's perspective on trafficking and demonstrate their active involvement in production.
Submissions require a digital copy in either MOV or MP4 format and must be accessible on a video-streaming platform. The deadline for entries is July 11, 2025, and applications should be submitted through the official IOM application link.
