The 20th jubilee International Film Festival “Together We Won” named after Vladimir Menshov opened on November 10, 2025, in Sochi, Russian Federation. Running from November 10 to 17 under the slogan “Expanding the Space of Victory!”, the festival unites documentary filmmakers from 45 countries.
CIS Secretary-General Sergey Lebedev sent a greeting to the participants and organizers of the event. It stated that since its foundation, the esteemed cinematic forum has carried an important humanitarian mission, contributing to the strengthening of spiritual and cultural ties among the CIS member states.
The Film Festival’s fundamental ideas align with the principles outlined in the Concept for the Further Development of the CIS and are aimed at preserving historical truth and maintaining traditional values.
This year, the Film Festival holds special significance, as its timing coincides with an important historical date – the 80th anniversary of the Soviet people’s Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945. This is not only a tribute to the heroes who fought for peace and victory but also a reminder of the value of unity, courage, and self-sacrifice demonstrated at that time by the peoples of our countries.
He noted that holding the Film Festival contributes to developing moral guidelines for the younger generation, strengthening social ideals, preserving spiritual traditions, and transmitting historical memory through the art of cinema.
“I am convinced that the 20th International Film Festival “Together We Won” will once again unite the cinematic community, present viewers with profound and meaningful films, and serve to strengthen intercultural dialogue among the peoples of the Commonwealth of Independent States”, emphasized the CIS Secretary-General in his greeting.
The Film Festival will host a regular joint meeting of the Council of the Heads of Public TV and Radio Organizations of the CIS Member States and the Administrative Board of the Commonwealth Interstate Information Pool within its framework.