Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1532462
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 16 FEBRUARY 2025 2 FILM New documentary to bring women's abortion stories to the screen The Dear Decision Makers documentary, currently crowdfunding on Zaar, hopes to amplify the voices of those affected by Malta's strict abortion laws A new crowdfunding cam- paign on Zaar has launched to help fund a documentary shedding light on the realities of life under one of the strict- est abortion laws in the world, through the untold stories of women in Malta. The project builds upon the Dear Decision Makers story- telling initiative introduced in 2020, which provided a safe platform for women and other members of the public to share their experiences of abortion and the ways in which they were negatively impacted by Malta's blanket ban. The re- sulting publication featured 48 powerful, first-hand accounts, told in each individual's own words. To amplify these voices fur- ther, Dear Decision Makers is now collaborating with British producers to create a documentary that will bring these stories to the screen. It will showcase stories from the publication, while highlight- ing perspectives through in- terviews with those engaged in the ongoing national con- versation about reproductive rights in Malta. "Malta's strict abortion laws have silenced many voices. I've worked in some of the most underdeveloped coun- tries and it pains me to see women's reproductive rights in these countries being taken more seriously than in my own supposedly developed nation," says project lead Laura Paris, a global health professional and humanitarian aid worker. "These stories of women im- pacted by Malta's restrictive reproductive healthcare laws may be anonymous, but they are real, they are important and they are worth listening to. Our hope with this docu- mentary is to raise awareness and inspire change by reveal- ing the human stories behind national policies." The documentary's produc- tion team includes experi- enced international and local filmmakers. UK-based crea- tive producer Rosie Litterick brings a strong background in documentary and communi- ty films, while filmmaker Olli Dickerson, known for his work on social and environmental issues, contributes his exten- sive expertise in impactful sto- rytelling. Local actor, theatre practitioner and TV producer Sandie von Brockdorff also adds a deep understanding of Malta's cultural and social landscape. To make this project a re- ality, the team hopes to raise €5,000 via the crowdfunding campaign, to cover the costs of filming, studio space, profes- sional animation, equipment rental, editing and distribu- tion. All backers – unless they wish to remain anonymous – will be acknowledged in the film's credits. Beyond financial contribu- tions, supporters can help by sharing the campaign, offering skills or spreading awareness. The team is also seeking part- nerships with individuals and organisations interested in supporting the documentary's outreach and distribution. Once the funding is secured, the production team aims to premiere the film in early 2026 and submit it to film festivals, as well as make it available on streaming platforms and via community screenings in Mal- ta and beyond. Donate to the Dear Decision Makers crowdfunding cam- paign at www.zaar.com.mt.