Who shapes the image of the world we live in today? What do we laugh at—and why? What does corruption look like when bribes are no longer passed along in envelopes? And why is it so difficult to change rules that we know are dysfunctional?

The Inspiration Forum is a unique discussion platform within the Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival, bringing together leading thinkers, creators, and changemakers from diverse fields to explore new perspectives on the challenges of our time and inspire future documentary storytelling.

Over seven days, the Forum will feature debates, keynote lectures, workshops, and collective reflection. Across two festival weekends, participants will delve into four themes that shape everyday life: maps, humour, corruption, and the question of how we can change the rules that govern our lives.

Discussions will examine how maps influence our understanding of the world and relate to power, memory, conflict, and technology; how humour can unite, challenge authority, or become a tool of resistance; how corruption operates through systems of money, connections, and influence; and what prevents meaningful change despite growing knowledge about today’s social, economic, and technological challenges.

Alongside the stage programme, the festival will also feature the Inspirational Mixer, a participant-led format that creates space for small-group discussions shaped by personal experiences and broader social questions.

This year’s edition will also include the third annual open poster competition, inviting participants to respond to the question: »What Should Not Be Missing from a Good World?« Entries may take the form of a drawing, photograph, collage, digital graphic, or text. All submissions will be exhibited online, with selected works also displayed during the festival.

The Inspiration Forum will take place from 23 October to 1 November 2026 as part of the Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival. All Inspiration Forum events are open to festival accreditation holders.

Further information about the programme and accreditation options can be found at Ji.hlava IDFF.

Header Image: © Radek Lavička / MFDF Ji.hlava