News

The fifth edition of the Babylon International Animation Film Festival has officially launched at Al-Mustaqbal University, drawing significant Arab and international participation. The event is held under the joint sponsorship of Al-Mustaqbal University, the French Embassy, the French Cultural Institute in Baghdad, and the Iraqi Artists Syndicate.
The opening ceremony began with a speech by Dr. Abbas Al-Bawi, Vice President of the University for Scientific Affairs, who welcomed the guests and participants from various countries. He emphasized the festival’s role in promoting cultural dialogue and mutual understanding through the universal language of imagery and imagination.
Mr. Samuel Mim, representative of the French Embassy, also delivered a speech expressing his country’s continued support for cultural and artistic activities that foster international cultural exchange. He praised Iraq’s role in embracing modern cinematic arts.
Festival Director Dr. Amer Sabah Al-Marzouq addressed the audience, stating:
“This festival offers a unique annual platform to celebrate the creativity of animation artists worldwide. We aim to build bridges of communication between cultures and inspire younger generations to innovate within this human, borderless art form.”
The opening included a selection of outstanding animated short films from Arab, European, and Asian productions. It was preceded by a musical performance by Dr. Haider Hameed and Dr. Ameen Saleh, adding a refined artistic ambiance. The event was skillfully hosted by Eng. Ali Riyadh Taih and Eng. Lanaa Al-Rubaie.
The festival will continue for three days at Al-Mustaqbal University, featuring film screenings, specialized workshops, and interactive panel discussions with filmmakers, critics, and audiences. The goal is to advance Iraq’s animation industry and connect it with international creative experiences.
- This festival aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), by empowering youth through artistic skills, and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), by fostering global cultural cooperation and supporting local creative industries.
- It is worth noting that the Babylon International Animation Film Festival was founded in 2018 as an independent platform to support animation and its creators. It has become one of the most important specialized festivals in the Middle East, held annually with wide participation from artists and enthusiasts worldwide.
For more information about the festival and its activities, visit the official website:
https://www.babylonch.com/
Al-Mustaqbal University, the First in Iraq