Zurich’s cultural calendar is brimming with opportunities for engagement in late March 2026, offering a diverse range of events that touch on pressing global issues and artistic expression. From human rights cinema to explorations of life in the Arctic, and discussions surrounding disinformation and geopolitical conflict, a series of events collectively known as “Politour” provides a platform for critical thought and community dialogue. These gatherings, taking place across various venues in the city, aim to foster understanding and inspire action on a range of important topics.
The coming weeks will see a spotlight on both established and emerging narratives. A key focus is the intersection of art and activism, exemplified by screenings and discussions surrounding films that document human rights abuses and the challenges faced by communities in conflict zones. Alongside these, events will delve into the complexities of truth and falsehood in the digital age, and offer a glimpse into the rapidly changing landscape of the Arctic region. The events, scheduled between March 26th and April 1st, 2026, offer a concentrated period of intellectual and cultural stimulation.
Films and Human Rights at the Zurich Festival
The Human Rights Film Festival Zurich, a fixture on the city’s cultural scene since 2015, returns from March 26th to April 1st, 2026, showcasing artistically compelling films that explore a wide spectrum of human rights themes. The festival distinguishes itself by presenting these issues without resorting to stereotypes or moralizing, instead fostering nuanced understanding through powerful storytelling. The festival’s website provides a full program of screenings and accompanying discussions with filmmakers, subjects, and experts.
Remembering Tschetschenien: A Film and Discussion
Twenty years after an initial conversation with director Eric Bergkraut and Sainap Gaschajewa appeared in the publication, the film “Coca: Die Taube aus Tschetschenien” (“Coca: The Dove from Chechnya”) will be screened in Zurich on March 26th, 2026. The film documents Gaschajewa’s experiences, born in exile in Kazakhstan, becoming a businesswoman, and raising four children while meticulously documenting the violence – abductions, torture, and murder – that has plagued her homeland since 1994. The screening, taking place at Gemeinschaftsraum Green City, Maneggplatz 34, will be followed by a discussion with Bergkraut and Gaschajewa, offering a rare opportunity to hear firsthand accounts and reflect on the ongoing situation in Chechnya. Details about the film can be found here.
Navigating the Age of Disinformation
The proliferation of “fake news” and disinformation presents a significant challenge to informed public discourse. On March 30th, 2026, Stefan Howald, a former editor, will deliver an analysis and plea at bücherraum f, Jungstrasse 9, in Zurich, exploring how the fantastical stories of Baron Münchhausen – with their blend of exaggeration, invention, and satire – might offer insights into navigating the current landscape of deception. The presentation is held in conjunction with the Münchhausen exhibition at the Museum Strauhof. Registration for the event, which begins at 7:00 PM, is encouraged via email.
Life on the Edge: Perspectives from North Greenland
The exhibition “An der Eiskante. Unterwegs in Nordgrönland” (“At the Ice Edge. Journey Through North Greenland”) offers a personal glance at the dramatic changes unfolding in Greenland, focusing on the perspectives of the Inughuit people of Qaanaaq, one of the northernmost inhabited regions of the Arctic. The exhibition features the work of photographer Markus Bühler and his son Nils, who accompanied Aleqatsiaq Peary and his son Jonas on their hunting expeditions. On March 27th, 2026, Peary and his son will travel to Zurich to share their experiences living in Qaanaaq at the Nordamerika Native Museum, Seefeldstrasse 317, at 7:00 PM. The event will be conducted in English, and space is limited; registration is required via email.
Solidarity with Palestine: A Personal Account
Tabea Zaugg, a 34-year-ancient from Bern, will share her experiences as part of a flotilla that attempted to deliver aid to Gaza in the autumn of 2025. Zaugg was among approximately 500 activists whose vessels were intercepted by Israeli forces in international waters, resulting in her detention for over thirty hours before being deported. On March 29th, 2026, at 6:00 PM, Zaugg will speak at the Quartierzentrum Bäckeranlage, Hohlstrasse 67, in Zurich, detailing her journey and the goals of the Global Sumud Flotilla. Her account will shed light on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the efforts to provide support to the affected population.
These events, collectively, represent a commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding around critical issues facing the world today. They offer a space for reflection, learning, and engagement, inviting participants to consider their own roles in shaping a more just and equitable future. The “Politour” series provides a valuable opportunity to connect with diverse perspectives and contribute to meaningful conversations.
Looking ahead, the organizers of these events will be compiling feedback and assessing the impact of the discussions. Further information about future events and initiatives will be available on the respective websites linked above. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
