A documentary focusing on how contrasting Bhutanese and Canadian cultures impact the development and perception of the democratic process will premiere today, Nov. 27, at 7 p.m.

The screen will be held at GPI Atlantic's office at 3006 Oxford St.

Contrasting Cultures of Democracy: Bhutanese and Canadian Youth Speak! was produced by GPI Atlantic, an independent, non-profit organization focused on the development of the Genuine Progress Index (GPI) as a measure of sustainability and quality of life, with funding from Democracy 250.

The film is an integral part of GPI's youth and democracy programming this month, and was created through the Bhutan Youth Development Fund.

The goal of the project was to generate discussion on politics and leadership, to commemorate celebrations of 250 years of democratic government in Canada, and to recognize Bhutan's first year as a democratic nation. Bhutan's king formally abdicated his throne and parliamentary elections were held in March.

The film offers a look into the evolution of democracy through the eyes of Canadian and Bhutanese youth. It shows how the most basic principals that define a democracy can vary between nations, and that free assembly and the opportunity to vote can hold different significance to residents of North America and Southern Asia.

The screening will feature presentations by Bhutanese and Canadian youth and a question and answer session. Bhutanese refreshments will be served.

Media Contact: Janna MacGregor
              Democracy 250
              902-424-5989
              E-mail: macgrejl@gov.ns.ca