CUGH Pulitzer Center Annual Film Festival

Join the Pulitzer Center for short films and conversation covering some of the world's most pressing global health issues at the CUGH 2026 Conference. The event is free and open to conference participants and the general public.

This year’s program explores the resurgence of measles in the United States, tracing how vaccine misinformation and hesitancy are fueling preventable outbreaks, alongside an international look at lessons from past public health crises. Another program examines the consequences of the shutdown of USAID, documenting the immediate impact on vulnerable communities around the world.

Through these films, audiences can gain a deeper understanding of today’s most pressing health challenges and the human stories behind them. A short Q&A with filmmakers will follow the screening, in a conversation moderated by Pulitzer Center editor Susan Ferriss.

Films:

Tragedy in Paradise
with Andy Pierrotti, Luke Carter

Recent measles outbreaks throughout have reignited concerns over declining vaccination rates. According to health officials, these outbreaks are largely fueled by vaccine misinformation and hesitancy, contributing to a resurgence of preventable diseases.

Doctors believe the anti-vaxxer movement is quickly turning into a public health crisis. This reporting project takes viewers on a road trip to Samoa to see what the U.S. can learn from its mistakes.

Cuts and Consequences: The End of USAID
with Molly Raskin

In the series, producer Molly Knight Raskin and PBS NewsHour correspondent William Brangham report on the impact of the Trump administration’s decision to shut down USAID.

This series reports from countries including Kenya, Ghana, and Bangladesh to document what happens to vulnerable communities when USAID support vanishes, literally overnight.  This reporting confirms that people are dying because of the cuts, and more will continue to do so.