Discover "Long Distance Swimmer: Sara Mardini", directed by Charly W. Feldman.

Syrian swimmer Sara Mardini, celebrated as a heroic refugee and humanitarian, now faces trial as a “criminal mastermind”. In 2015, she and her sister Yusra fleeing Syria accomplished the feat of towing their sinking boat and the refugees on board to safety, making headlines around the world. After three years rescuing refugees on Lesbos, Sara was arrested in 2018, charged with espionage and human trafficking. If convicted, she faces up to 25 years in prison, jeopardizing both her freedom and her humanitarian work.

This documentary follows Sara's legal battle and personal transformation, highlighting Europe's shift from welcoming refugees to criminalizing those who help them.

Watch this intimate story of courage and conviction!

OV with English subtitles

After the screening, join us for a discussion on “Protecting the Humanitarian Workers” with:

• Olivier Vandecasteele, Founder and Director of Protect Humanitarians
• William Spindler, UNHCR Spokesperson
• Christian Cardon, Chief External Communication, ICRC

Moderation: Vanessa Huguenin, UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

In partnership with: 

With the support of: