Mauritanian director Abderrahmane Sissako, a winner at the Cannes Film Festival and recipient of a César Award, will chair the international competition jury of the 22nd Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival.

Sissako is widely regarded as one of the most poignant voices in world cinema advocating for human dignity, compassion, justice, and tolerance.

Notably, this marks the first time that Golden Apricot will honor an African filmmaker in this role.

Sissako has won over 20 awards and has served on juries at the Berlin (2003) and Cannes (2000, 2003, 2007) Film Festivals. In 2008, he chaired the commission of La Fémis, France’s most prestigious film school.

The 22nd Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival will be held from July 13 to 20, featuring competitive films from around the world and selections from leading festivals.