Petro Rusanienko elected as Roma and Sinti representative to the European Film Academy Board

The European Film Academy has announced its newly elected Board for the 2026–2027 mandate, marking a historic milestone for representation in European cinema: for the first time, a dedicated board seat has been created for transnational minorities in Europe.

Filmmaker and cultural professional Petro Rusanienko (Ukraine) has been elected to this newly established position, representing Roma and Sinti filmmakers across Europe. Rusanienko is also Community Coordinator – Pride and Identity at ERIAC, working at the intersection of culture, advocacy, and community empowerment.

This appointment signals a long-overdue structural shift within one of Europe’s most influential film institutions, recognising the need for Roma and Sinti voices to be present not only on screen, but also at decision-making tables. As a board member, Rusanienko will contribute to shaping the Academy’s strategies, governance, and vision, alongside leading figures from across the European film industry.

The European Film Academy Board for 2026 will be chaired by Romanian producer Ada Solomon, with deputy chairs Leontine Petit and Matthieu Darras. The Board consists of 19 members, meets three times a year in different European countries, and plays a key role in confirming nominations, policies, and long-term strategies of the Academy.

At ERIAC, this moment resonates deeply with our ongoing commitment to Roma self-representation, cultural equity, and institutional access. The election of Petro Rusanienko stands as an important step toward dismantling systemic exclusion and ensuring that Roma and Sinti filmmakers are part of shaping the future of European cinema, on equal footing.

We warmly congratulate Petro Rusanienko and look forward to the impact this historic representation will have across the European audiovisual landscape.

Read more on the EFA official website.