Alba Sotorra’s exclusive access to the al-Roj camp in northeastern Syria shows us the harsh reality of a group of women trapped by their past as members of ISIS. Shamima Begum (UK) and Hoda Muthana (USA) left their countries manipulated by terrorist propaganda and social media hatred. They were demonized by the media and now no one wants to know anything about them.

Does sincere repentance deserve a second chance? Can it be justified that Western countries accept the return of their children but won’t allow their mothers to return? The Catalan director strives to understand the nuances of a complex and delicate situation.

Following the lives of Shamima, Hoda, Hafida, Nawal and Kimberly for two years puts us in an uncomfortable position, but their testimony makes us understand the cruelty, abuse and misogyny they have experienced. Sotorra’s sensitivity to observe without prejudice highlights the urgent need to establish an honest and empathetic dialogue between different cultures, religions, genders and worldviews.

DocsBarcelona Panorama Section, supported by ARTE