This project was realized through the joint efforts of journalists from Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. The idea belongs to Munara Borombaeva, representing Bishkek, and Madina Ashilova from Almaty. The directors of the film are Munara Borombaeva and Madina Ashilova, while the editorial work was carried out by Anarkhan Altymyshova (Kyrgyzstan) and Kalimash Begalieva (Kazakhstan).
The film addresses important environmental issues that concern both countries and represents a detailed journalistic investigation into one of the most critical topics for Central Asia — the rapid melting of glaciers and its consequences for millions of people.
At the center of the narrative are not only scientific facts but also real human stories:
- the voices of science — glaciologists who have been conducting long-term observations and documenting the acceleration of glacier melting;
- the voices of defenders — emergency services personnel who work daily to reduce the threat of mudflows to major cities;
- the voices of the affected — residents of Almaty who experienced a devastating mudflow in 2015, as well as climate migrants from Kyrgyzstan who left their homes due to drought;
- the voices of experts and activists — leading ecologists from Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan analyzing the causes of ongoing changes, debunking myths, and proposing pathways for adaptation and cooperation in the region.
The film illustrates how transboundary environmental issues affect water and food security, social stability, gender equality, and the right to a favorable environment.
The premiere screening served as an important platform for discussion. The organizers hope to draw the attention of international organizations, diplomats, representatives of government structures, and civil society to the climate challenges facing the region and the necessity of uniting efforts within the framework of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Munara Borombaeva, the film's author, noted: "We wanted to show that glacier melting is not some abstract threat of the future, but a problem that the region is already facing today. The film traces the connection between the reduction of glaciers, emergencies, climate migration, and drought. We also consider possible solutions and mechanisms for adapting to climate change."
