Doc Media Centre

The Documentary Media Centre hosts the ‘Conflict Memory Education Centre’. It aims to collect and preserve the stories and artefacts from various wars and conflicts. This initiative is more than a mere archival project; it is a commitment to ensuring that the lessons and human experiences from these tumultuous periods are not forgotten. 

Central to this project are three distinct archives: Ukraine ‘Burya’, Chechnya ‘Sintar’, and Iraq ‘Awda’. Each archive encapsulates the essence of the conflicts through documentary film, photography, audio, and new media resources, creating invaluable educational materials.

Ukraine ‘Burya’: Capturing the Storm of Change

The Ukraine ‘Burya’ archive, named after the Ukrainian word for “storm,” encapsulates the turbulent events that have shaped Ukraine in recent years. This archive focuses on the Euromaidan protests, the annexation of Crimea, and the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine. Through a collection of documentary films, photographs, and personal testimonies, ‘Burya’ provides a vivid portrayal of the resilience and struggle of the Ukrainian people.

The archive includes poignant images of the barricades in Kyiv, the faces of protestors, and the ravaged landscapes of the Donbas region. Audio recordings capture the voices of those who lived through the upheaval, offering personal insights into the conflict’s impact on everyday life. By preserving these narratives, the Ukraine ‘Burya’ archive not only informs but also fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities of Ukrainian history and identity.

Chechnya ‘Sintar’: Remembering the Silent Suffering

The Chechnya ‘Sintar’ archive, derived from the Chechen word for “silent,” seeks to document the often-overlooked suffering of the Chechen wars. This archive offers a profound glimpse into the lives disrupted by the brutal conflicts between Russian forces and Chechen separatists. The ‘Sintar’ collection is a powerful reminder of the silent yet enduring pain experienced by countless civilians.

Photographs of devastated towns, the haunting ruins of Grozny, and the resilient spirit of the Chechen people are central to this archive. Documentary films delve into the stories of survival and loss, highlighting the courage and fortitude of those who endured the conflicts. Audio interviews and new media resources bring to life the voices that have long remained unheard, ensuring that the silent suffering of Chechnya is remembered and acknowledged in educational contexts.

Iraq ‘Awda’: Chronicles of Return and Resilience

The Iraq ‘Awda’ archive, from the Arabic word for “return,” chronicles the multifaceted conflict and the subsequent efforts of rebuilding and resilience in Iraq. This archive encompasses the invasion of Iraq in 2003, the sectarian violence that followed, and the ongoing challenges of reconstruction and reconciliation.

The ‘Awda’ collection includes a diverse array of documentary films, capturing everything from the initial shock of the invasion to the current struggles of Iraqis seeking to reclaim their lives and heritage. Photographs depict the stark contrasts between destruction and hope, while audio recordings offer intimate narratives of displacement, return, and resilience. By presenting these varied perspectives, the Iraq ‘Awda’ archive serves as a comprehensive educational resource, shedding light on the enduring human spirit in the face of prolonged conflict.

The Educational Impact

The Documentary Media Centre’s ‘Conflict Memory Education Centre’ is more than a repository of historical artefacts; it is a dynamic educational tool. By integrating these archives into learning environments, educators can provide students with a richer, more nuanced understanding of global conflicts. The use of documentary media—films, photography, audio, and new media—ensures that these lessons are not just read but felt, fostering empathy and critical thinking.

Through the Ukraine ‘Burya’, Chechnya ‘Sintar’, and Iraq ‘Awda’ archives, the Documentary Media Centre honors the memories of those affected by conflict and ensures that their stories continue to educate and inspire future generations. These archives stand as a testament to the power of documentary media in preserving history and promoting peace and understanding.