More than just a language network, Francophonie embodies a spirit of solidarity and exchange across continents. It spans Europe, Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific, reflecting the historical influence of France and other French-speaking nations. Though not a full member, India holds observer status in the OIF, recognizing its historical and cultural ties to the French-speaking world, particularly through former French territories like Pondicherry, Chandannagar, and Mahé. 

French continues to be taught and spoken in parts of India, fostering educational and diplomatic exchanges with Francophone countries. Through its involvement, India strengthens its global partnerships while contributing to the values of multilingualism and cultural cooperation.

Francophonie refers to the worldwide community of French-speaking people, including countries, regions, and organizations where French is spoken as a first, official, or cultural language. Beyond just a linguistic concept, it represents a shared heritage, fostering cultural and diplomatic ties among diverse populations. 

The Francophonie is also an institution established in 1970, dedicated to promoting the French language and fostering political, educational, economic, and cultural cooperation among the 93 member countries of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF).

The OIF’s governing framework is outlined in the Charter of the Francophonie, which defines its highest authority, the Summit of the Francophonie, and its cornerstone, the Secretary General. Louise Mushikiwabo currently holds the position of Secretary General.

The OIF carries out various multilateral Francophone cooperation projects in collaboration with the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie and four key agencies: the Agence universitaire de la Francophonie (Association of Francophone Universities), TV5MONDE, the International Association of Francophone Mayors, and Université Senghor (Senghor University) in Alexandria.

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La Petite vendeuse de soleil + Le Franc

Djibril Diop Mambéty (Senegal)

If Wes Anderson and Spike Lee had a cinematic love child in Africa, it might be Djibril Diop Mambéty. His films are electric, unpredictable, and dripping with style. Touki Bouki is a wild ride of youthful rebellion, mixing surrealism, satire, and raw emotion like a fever dream you don’t want to wake up from. Mambéty saw storytelling as a playground, and boy, did he have fun breaking all the rules.

Moufida Tlatli (Tunisia)

Some filmmakers shout, others whisper—but Moufida Tlatli’s whispers shake you to your core. As the first Arab woman to direct a feature film, she made The Silences of the Palace, a hauntingly beautiful story about power, patriarchy, and the hidden lives of women. Her films don’t demand attention with noise; they lure you in with quiet intensity, leaving an echo that lingers long after the credits roll.

Le Mandat

Ousmane Sembène (Senegal)

If cinema were a battlefield, Ousmane Sembène would be leading the charge, camera in hand. Known as the “father of African cinema,” he didn’t just tell stories—he dropped truth bombs, taking on colonialism, corruption, and inequality with fearless storytelling. From Black Girl to Moolaadé, his films didn’t tiptoe around injustice; they kicked the door down. With Sembène, every frame was a revolution, and every story was a battle cry for change.

Safi Faye (Senegal)

Before “authentic storytelling” became a buzzword, Safi Faye was out there doing it. A true pioneer, she was the first sub-Saharan African woman to direct a feature film, and she made sure her people’s voices were heard. With Kaddu Beykat, she turned the quiet struggles of rural Senegal into poetic, powerful cinema. Her work feels like sitting under a baobab tree, listening to the wisdom of generations—intimate, lyrical, and deeply human.

Omar Sy (France/Senegal)

Omar Sy is the kind of actor who could read a grocery list and still make you laugh, cry, and root for him. Bursting onto the global stage with The Intouchables, he brings warmth, charm, and effortless cool to every role. Whether he’s cracking jokes, fighting mutants in X-Men, or stealing scenes in Lupin, Sy has that rare magic—he doesn’t just act; he connects. And that’s why the world can’t get enough of him.

Aïssa Maïga (France/Mali/Senegal)

Aïssa Maïga is more than just a striking screen presence,she is a force for change in the industry. An actress, filmmaker, and activist, she has been outspoken about the representation of Black actors in French cinema while delivering stunning performances in films like Bamako and The African Doctor. Whether acting or directing, Maïga’s work challenges stereotypes, celebrates identity, and paves the way for a more inclusive future in film.