Documentary Film 'RETURNEES' Comes to Local Kyoto
Terra Renaissance will screen the documentary 'RETURNEES', which records 21 years of support for former child soldiers, at Kyoto Cinema starting May 22, 2026. A post-screening talk event is scheduled for May 23.
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- 📰 Published: May 19, 2026 at 21:30
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Terra Renaissance (Headquarters: Kyoto City, Chairperson: Mai Yoshida) announces that the documentary film 'RETURNEES,' which chronicles the organization's 21-year commitment to supporting the social reintegration of former child soldiers, will be screened at Kyoto Cinema starting May 22, 2026.
■ Bringing the Activity Back 'Home'
We are delighted that this work, which follows our foundation's origins in Kyoto, will be screened locally. Established in Kyoto in 2001, we have spent 21 years supporting victims kidnapped as 'child soldiers' in conflict-ridden regions like Uganda and Congo.
■ A Film Produced with Passion
The film was produced by Japan Press Network, known for its work on social issues. It records for two years the lives of former child soldiers returning from armed groups and the efforts to support their reintegration. Since its Tokyo premiere on February 14, 2026, the film has spread across various locations in Japan.
■ Approaching the End of Conflict
In April 2026, following advocacy by Terra Renaissance, a ministerial-level meeting between Uganda, Congo, and the Central African Republic was realized. A system is being established to assist the repatriation of an estimated 500 individuals still held by armed groups. Terra Renaissance is currently conducting a crowdfunding campaign, 'Life, Not Weapons,' with a goal of 50 million yen to support this process.
■ Talk Event Scheduled for May 23
Director Kei Kikuchi and Chairperson Mai Yoshida will hold a post-screening talk event to discuss the realities behind the film and current support activities.
■ Bringing the Activity Back 'Home'
We are delighted that this work, which follows our foundation's origins in Kyoto, will be screened locally. Established in Kyoto in 2001, we have spent 21 years supporting victims kidnapped as 'child soldiers' in conflict-ridden regions like Uganda and Congo.
■ A Film Produced with Passion
The film was produced by Japan Press Network, known for its work on social issues. It records for two years the lives of former child soldiers returning from armed groups and the efforts to support their reintegration. Since its Tokyo premiere on February 14, 2026, the film has spread across various locations in Japan.
■ Approaching the End of Conflict
In April 2026, following advocacy by Terra Renaissance, a ministerial-level meeting between Uganda, Congo, and the Central African Republic was realized. A system is being established to assist the repatriation of an estimated 500 individuals still held by armed groups. Terra Renaissance is currently conducting a crowdfunding campaign, 'Life, Not Weapons,' with a goal of 50 million yen to support this process.
■ Talk Event Scheduled for May 23
Director Kei Kikuchi and Chairperson Mai Yoshida will hold a post-screening talk event to discuss the realities behind the film and current support activities.
FAQ
Where can I watch the film 'RETURNEES'?
In Kyoto, it is scheduled to be screened at 'Kyoto Cinema' from May 22 to May 28, 2026.
How can I support Terra Renaissance's activities?
You can support their work through the 'Life, Not Weapons' crowdfunding campaign aimed at the reintegration of former child soldiers. Check their official website for details.
What have been the results of their activities?
Through 21 years of advocacy, they successfully convened a ministerial-level meeting between Uganda, Congo, and the Central African Republic, creating a framework to support the repatriation of an estimated 500 individuals.