PALARCTIC is a filmmaking program that aims to bring together aspiring filmmakers between the ages of 20 and 35 from Palestine and Norway, or other Nordic nationalities based in Northern Norway, to provide them with opportunities to learn from each other and share their experiences. It's a way for emerging filmmakers from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives to come together and develop new film ideas. Using filmmaking to promote cultural diversity and help identify cross-cultural exchange.
After two years of genocide in Gaza, this moment has only deepened our understanding that developing, promoting, and preserving Palestinian narratives matters more than ever. As we confront the relentless struggle of our narrative, we face an urgent responsibility to raise our voices. It is now more than ever. As Gaza mourns and prepares to rebuild, the Tromsø-Gaza Twin City Cooperation at Tvibit, in collaboration with the Palestine Film Institute, is committed to supporting Palestinians and their voices.
PALARCTIC
Ten talented filmmakers aged 20 to 35 from diverse backgrounds will come together to live, work, and develop their film projects. This group will consist of five Norwegian and Nordic filmmakers, along with five aspiring Palestinian filmmakers from the diaspora.
This unique two-week program will take place from June 19 to July 2, 2026, in Tromsø, Northern Norway.
Participants will experience new cultures, face film challenges, and enjoy diverse food and life experiences. Together, they will create a space to explore a part of the world they have yet to discover.
The first week will coincide with the Nordic Youth Film Festival, during which participants will take part in the NUFF challenge to create a short film together within one week. The second week will focus on developing the filmmakers' submitted projects.
Through art, we resist. Through film, we remember. Through solidarity, we build
This year, Tromsø is the European Youth Capital, and it also marks the 25th anniversary of the friendship between Tromsø and Gaza. The Palarctic Film Program is developed by Tvibit in partnership with the Palestine Film Institute, in collaboration with the Nordic Youth Film Festival (NUFF), and is supported by Arctic Film Norway and Fritt-Ord (The Freedom of Speech Foundation)
More info about The Tromsø-Gaza Twin-city Cooperation or for any questions please contact: mohammed.aljabali@tromso.kommune.no