Collaborative Storytelling: Protecting Protagonists While Amplifying Marginalized Voices

In a time when storytelling is inseparably linked to collaboration and the exchange of perspectives, the political and social dimensions of collective creative work are becoming increasingly important. This workshop invites documentary filmmakers, journalists, and content creators to radically rethink how they develop and produce stories. At its core is the question of how we can tell stories with our protagonists — as equal partners in the creative process. The focus is on amplifying marginalized voices, making their perspectives visible, and protecting their safety and dignity at the same time. The workshop aims to explore the artistic and ethical dimensions of collaborative practices and to foster networks that sustainably support these approaches.

Collaborative Approaches: How can we actively involve protagonists in the creative process to develop stories together?

Protection & Responsibility: What safety measures and ethical standards are necessary to protect marginalized individuals from harm?

Networks & Synergies: How can collective practices enrich the creative process while connecting global and local perspectives?

This session is part of the programme special ON SCREEN and was curated by dokumentale.