We have to report that of the 33 theoretically possible answers, Jan Essing has received exactly 7, which is less than a quarter of our nations – and some were only very brief. This is, of course, very disappointing in terms of numbers, so the responses of participating countries may not be truly considered representative for all members.

Nevertheless and at first glance it appears that 5 if not 6 federations are satisfied with the current organisation of UNICA. Only France, upon close study of their reply, calls for a profound change, challenging the very foundations of our organisation.

Now my friends, given the above, what are we (Kees, as special envoy, and the committee) to do with such a result? Of course most people want to bring about an improvement in this or that point, particularly as regards the financing of our organisation. But no one is willing to make even greater sacrifices, to make higher contributions. That is: each believes that additional resources should be generated through sponsorship.

One thing seems very clear. At present, we can ask no greater sacrifice from our members, especially federations organising the festival. It is equally clear that it has now become more difficult than ever to woo sponsors. Without a professional marketing strategy and without a targeted communication campaign nothing of this sort will happen.

As a committee we have neither the material means nor human resources that could enable the development of a major marketing strategy or launching a communication campaign likely to succeed.

UNICA - a world body?

It has been said UNICA is wrong to call itself a World Association of Non-professionals film makers, as scarcely 30 national organisations are affiliated – some of which only exist on paper. We respond that our organisation due to its structure and its political neutrality is open to all national associations and thus for filmmakers from all corners of the earth. We must not forget that we already have representatives from four continents. Recently, countries such as Morocco and Moldova have knocked on our door. The fifth continent, Australia, may soon come to us which will give additional impetus to our claim. Since we're talking about a stronger marketing strategy, it seems to me absurdly counter-productive to be too modest. These days nothing seems to work without a little exaggeration, especially so, when looking for public or private sponsors. Let us have the pride and ambition, therefore, to continue to call ourselves a world association.

We will try, of course, to network with various organisations and associations to make contacts in other countries in both Asia and America, where a national framework has been created, which might be accepted here. This will not be easy, but it certainly is worth a try.