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Free the Burma VJs

Burma VJ is an award-winning film telling the dramatic story of the brave new breed of young ‘video journalists’ who, using hidden cameras, put their lives on the line to tell the real story of the Burmese uprisings and the fight for democracy. Distinguished by the orange robes worn by the monks, the uprisings became known globally as the Saffron Uprisings.

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Earlier this year, as part of NUS' global justice  work we supported The Co-operative who launched the film across the UK. Susan Nash, NUS Vice President (Society and Citizenship) attended the launch, and explains why the film and this campaign is so important.

"Students in Burma cannot enjoy aspects of everyday life that students in this country take for granted,” she says. “Subjects like politics, economics and international relations are banned, political campaigning is met with torture and oppression, even comedy is suppressed. I had the pleasure of attending the launch of this film. It is incredibly moving and a must see. Please watch this film, tell your friends, and get involved in NUS Burma campaign."

NUS Global Justice  campaigns seek to provide solidarity to students abroad by raising awareness of the plight of students across the world. This year NUS will be focusing attention on three main countries, including Burma, to highlight the suffering experienced by our colleagues across the globe. We are asking students up and down the country to watch the film, get involved in the campaign, as your small actions can have a incredible impact on the lives of students elsewhere.

The film is now being offered, free of charge, to any students’ union nationwide. Why not host a screening in your hall or students union, and spread awareness on your campus? It’s very simple to do. Whether your just a student with a passion about human rights, or a student group campaigning on these type of issues, get in touch by emailing your interest to; campaigns@co-operative.coop. In addition to the film NUS and the Co-op will provide participating students unions with a range of resources to get people involved in the campaign.