From the very first year of its establishment in 2003, the Festival has set the objective of offering the Cypriot public screenings of high quality cinematographic works. The same objective applies to the international competition section entitled ‘Glocal Images’, which attracts independent creators whose work highlights the colours of local culture, offering a unique approach to themes of interest to global public opinion. A three-member Artistic Committee, appointed by the Ministry of Education and Culture and Rialto Theatre, is responsible for the selection of the films as well as the preparation of the screenings programme and the parallel events, while the Jury is made up of distinguished personalities from the film industry.

The Festival aims not only to broaden its appeal within the geographical boundaries of Cyprus, but to attract both industry and audiences from abroad by becoming a cinematographic meeting point for the three continents surrounding the island.