Amnesty International Hong Kong is holding a series of events against gender-based violence, during the 16-day period from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) through 10 December (Human Rights Day). There will be film screenings, community talks and running events etc. For details, registration and updates, please visit svaw.amnesty.org.hk. #SVAW

SAVING FACE

Directors: Sharmeen Obaid & Daniel Junge

Pakistan‧In Urdu & English with Chinese and English subtitles‧2012‧40mins

In 2012, there were at least 150 cases of acid violence in Pakistan, where more than 90% of the victims were women and many cases remain unreported.  Acid violence causing facial disfigurement is to punish women for various reasons, including rejection of dating advances, intention to divorce, unwillingness to marry, refusal to have sexual relations, etc.  Acid violence is also evident in Bangladesh and India. 

This film is directed by two Oscar-winning directors, outlining the story of two acid-attack survivors in Pakistan.  Even though their lives have been saved, the acid has damaged their faces and limbs and their lives have been destroyed and forever changed.  There are many difficulties in the pursuit of justice.  Even though plastic surgeons come from overseas to help these women undergo facial reconstruction, can surgery renew their hope to live?