Guidelines for Responsible Filmmaking with Sámi Culture and People

The International Sámi Film Institute and Sámi Film Association have developed the Pathfinder – guidelines for responsible filmmaking with Sámi culture and people. The guidelines are provided in English and present practices, tools, and information for respectful and ethical handling of topics related to the Sámi people.

The Pathfinder guidelines have two main purposes: they are meant as a practical guide for filmmakers who want to include Sámi themes in their films in an inclusive manner as well as to point out what values the Sámi treasure and provide guidance for avoiding misrepresentation and appropriation. The document emphasises the benefit of sharing and learning from each other in reciprocity and respect for the freedom of art.

The guidelines include

• checklists and suggested principles
• typical problem areas related to representation
• information on the characteristics of the Sámi heritage and culture
• distinction between cultural appropriation and cultural exchange
• information on the intellectual property rights of indigenous peoples
• information on the importance of genuine inclusion and benefit sharing.

It is recommended that the guidelines be used as support already at the planning stage of the production. The International Sámi Film Institute encourages productions to also contact them directly.

The Responsible Visitors’ Guide to World of Sámi Culture and Sámi Homeland in Finland created by the Sámi Parliament in Finland provides visitors to the Sámi Homeland with information on the impact of tourism on the community’s wellbeing and the surrounding nature. There has been also a Vocabulary of Responsible Tourism for Sámi Homeland compiled.