Sevil International Women’s Documentary Film Festival, launched in 2020, is an independent platform in Azerbaijan dedicated to addressing gender-related issues through documentary cinema. Focused on promoting women and queer filmmakers, it challenges stereotypes and fosters inclusivity in the local industry. Held across Baku, Shaki, and Lankaran, the festival showcases a diverse selection of international and local documentaries, facilitating public discourse on topics like gender equality, domestic violence, and women’s empowerment. Named after Jafar Jabbarli’s play Sevil, symbolizing the fight against patriarchal traditions, the festival also hosts competitions to spotlight emerging talent.