The Cambodia premiere of a documentary made in Siem Reap and Banteay Meanchey last year screens tonight at the Platinum Cineplex.

Homeward, created by Italian NGO GVC Onlus, describes the experiences of Cambodian families whose members are forced to leave their homes in search of work in neighbouring Thailand.

“We estimate that there are one million Cambodian migrants every year in Thailand,” says Stefania Pirani, the organisation’s country representative. There, they face a range of problems including human trafficking and labour exploitation. Without proper documentation, they are vulnerable.

The short film, directed by Mario Piredda of Italian production company Elenfant Film, records the testimonies of men and women who have returned home and the often brutal experiences they have endured on the other side of the border. 

GVC Onlus has worked with communities in the west of the Kingdom for the past three years under their MIGRA SAFE program, funded by EuropeAid, which helps educate potential migrants about their rights.

The film has already been shown at film festivals in Italy, and will continue to be shown at international film festivals as part of GVC Onlus’ mission to raise awareness.  

Homeward opens at 6pm at Platinum Cineplex. It will show again on Saturday and Sunday at 6:30pm. Entrance to all screenings is free. Khmer with English subtitles.