A powerful global documentary celebrating indigenous resilience and spirituality will take centre stage in Phnom Penh this month, as part of an event honouring Cambodia’s indigenous peoples and their connections to global indigenous struggles.
The film, The Eternal Song, will be screened on July 13, at the Factory Theatre in Factory Phnom Penh at 2pm.
“The event, free and open to the public, is organised by four key indigenous organisations: the Cambodian Indigenous Peoples’ Organisation (CIPO), Cambodian Indigenous Women’s Association (CIWA), Cambodian Indigenous Youth Association (CIYA) and Cambodian Indigenous Peoples’ Alliance (CIPA),” explained the organisers.
The documentary, directed by renowned filmmakers Zaya and Maurizio Benazzo — known for The Wisdom of Trauma and Where Olive Trees Weep — premiered globally in June and has been praised for its spiritual depth and vivid storytelling.
The film has been described by viewers as “a prayer,” “a remembering” and “a sacred ceremony” that highlights indigenous relationships with land and nature.
“We want to awaken the value and understanding of indigenous practices and show how deeply our culture is linked to nature and spiritual connection,” said Yun Mane, executive director of CIPO and host of the event.
A Bunong lawyer and advocate from Mondulkiri, Mane emphasised the importance of global solidarity and learning across indigenous communities.
The afternoon will feature a blend of cultural celebration and serious reflection.
In addition to the film screening, the event includes a traditional blessing ritual, indigenous dance and music performances, and a discussion with indigenous leaders and community members.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to view photo exhibitions and live weaving demonstrations and taste indigenous snacks.
Blen Romam, president of the Cambodian Indigenous Youth Association (CIYA) and a Jarai community leader, said: “We belong to the land. It’s the indigenous peoples who continue to protect the natural resources in places like Keo Seima.”
“This film reminds us — and the world — that this connection must be protected.”
Cambodia is home to at least 24 indigenous ethnic groups and together they make up about 3 per cent of the national population with an estimated 250,000 to 400,000 individuals, residing largely in the forested highlands of the northeast.
The indigenous territories include the forested plateaus and highlands of North-eastern Cambodia, approximately 25 per cent of the national territory.
Some of the different ethnic groups present in Cambodia are Bunong, Kui, Jarai, Stieng, Mil, Kroal, Thmorn, Khaonh, Tompuonn, Kroeung, Kavet, Saouch, Lun, Kachak, Praov, Raadear, Chorng, Por, Souy, Chaong, Lmoun and Mon.
Despite their crucial role in forest conservation and cultural preservation, indigenous communities continue to face threats from land dispossession, resource extraction and displacement.
The screening of The Eternal Song aims to draw international and local attention to these ongoing challenges while celebrating the rich heritage and strength of Cambodia’s indigenous peoples.
Live performances will include traditional dance by the Cambodian Indigenous Youth Association and music by Brao singer-songwriter Youn Mondet.
The event also features a visual showcase by indigenous photographer Tong Len, with traditional weavings displayed by CIWA members.
Organisers have invited media, youth, students, government officials, civil society, embassies and UN agencies to attend.
“This is more than a movie,” said Mane.
“It is an opportunity to reflect, connect and act together,” he added.
