The 59th edition of DOK Leipzig will take place in Leipzig/Germany from 31 Oct. to 6 Nov. 2016. This largest German and internationally leading festival is renowned for presenting a high-quality selection of the best new creative, artistic and author-driven documentaries and animated short films. The programme consists of up to 350 films from around 60 countries. The Official Selection comprises six competitions, and a non-competitive international programme. The 18 festival awards amount to up to approximately 80,000 EUR. Programmes are curated selections to inspire and to promote dialogue about trends and tendencies in filmmaking and promote cultural heritage and film history. In 2016 we will have "Disobedience" as our thematic framework: this will be reflected in films that are breaking the traditional rules, showing how art can be used as a critical voice and in films that talk about civil courage. We will have several acclaimed filmmakers, among others the award winning British director Lucy Walker ( nominated twice for an Academy Award and for seven Emmys) to talk about her work as a woman in film industry.Finnish artist Jani Leinonen will bring his animations to the Festival and show, how art can challenge society’s injustices and fight for change. As always, we will dedicate an homage to an inspirational director. Master classes will accompany the homages and give deep insights into the directors’ work and vision. Apart from the accompanying rich DOK Industry Programme, DOK Leipzig will organise Q&As, film talks and panel discussions. More than 150 European films will be part of the festival programme. We expect an audience of 50,000 and about 1,800 accredited professionals. Throughout the year, DOK Leipzig curates film programmes in Germany and abroad, works with many international partners, organises the DOK Education film literacy programme and serves as a centre of competence.