The Myanmar short film “Limbo” has been awarded the best animation at the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) inaugural Health for All film festival, shining light on the plight of rape survivors in Karen state.
Yangon Film School (YFS) mentor Nwaye Zar Che Soe, 41, from Ayeyarwady region, along with graduates Nann Win May Aye, 28, from Shan state, and Saw Eh Doh Poe, 27, from Karen state, produced the film using sand animation.
Based on interviews with women who shared their testimonials of rape, the story follows a 19-year-old woman who is targeted by her uncle at her home.
Initially pressured by him to remain silent and abort the child that resulted from the attack, she remains determined to obtain justice in order to bring up her young son in an equal society.
“I believe this award was given not only to our creators, but also to encourage the expression of young survivor girls from Burma who have not received full health care support, like the character in this movie,” said Nwaye Zar Che Soe, adding that she was “extremely honoured” to win the award and would produce more films on such issues.
According to government statistics, there were 1,405 rape cases in 2017, up from 1,110 the year before—around two thirds committed against children—although experts say the true figure is likely far higher.
The UN Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar has also reported widespread use of sexual violence by members of the military against civilians and warned violence against women and girls is a "silent emergency" in the country.
“In particular, we hope that this prestigious award will provide us with an inroad to policy-makers in Myanmar's government where the law on the Prevention of Violence Against Women, long ratified, has yet to be enacted,” said YFS founder Lindsey Merrison.
