Human Rights Movies to Watch on Netflix 2025

Movies have the power to move us, educate us, and spark change, and nowhere is this more true than with films that tackle human rights issues head-on. Whether it’s the fight against injustice, the journey toward equality, or the struggles of refugees and marginalized communities, these stories remind us why human rights matter.

In 2025, Netflix continues to offer a growing collection of powerful human rights movies. Here’s a curated list of must-watch films that will open your mind, break your heart, and fuel your desire for a more just world.

1. The Swimmers (2022)

Based on a true story, The Swimmers follows two sisters who flee war-torn Syria, facing perilous journeys to find safety. Their incredible resilience and determination shed light on the refugee experience—and the human right to seek asylum.

2. Rustin (2023)

Produced by Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground, Rustin tells the story of Bayard Rustin, the brilliant strategist behind the 1963 March on Washington. As an openly gay Black man, Rustin’s fight for civil rights—and against prejudice within the movement itself—is a must-see.

3. 13th (2016)

cover image of the documentary 13th by Netflix

Directed by Ava DuVernay, this groundbreaking documentary explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. It’s a critical film for anyone wanting to understand systemic racism and human rights abuses within the legal system.

4. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019)

Based on a true story, this inspiring film follows a young boy from Malawi who builds a wind turbine to save his village from famine. It highlights the importance of education, innovation, and basic rights like access to food and clean water.

5. American Son (2019)

Adapted from the Broadway play, American Son dives into racial tensions and police violence through the lens of a mother searching for her missing son. A sharp, emotional examination of race, justice, and the right to safety.

6. El Conde (2023)

While it’s a satirical take, El Conde creatively explores Chile’s violent dictatorship under Augusto Pinochet. Dark, sharp, and thought-provoking, it’s a reminder of how authoritarianism erodes human rights over generations.

7. Becoming (2020)

This intimate documentary follows Michelle Obama on her book tour, weaving in personal reflections on identity, belonging, and public service. It’s a hopeful, human story about empowerment, resilience, and community building.

8. All the Beauty and the Bloodshed (2022)

This Oscar-nominated documentary tells the story of photographer Nan Goldin’s campaign against the Sackler family and the opioid crisis. It’s a gripping portrait of activism, art, and the right to health.

9. Tell Me Who I Am (2019)

A deeply emotional documentary about trauma, memory, and trust, this film explores how human rights intersect with personal history—and the right to truth, even when it’s painful.

10. Freedom on Fire: Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom (2022)

This documentary captures the human cost of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, focusing on civilians’ resilience in the face of war crimes and displacement. A raw, urgent reminder of why human rights protections are essential in conflict zones.

11. Crip Camp (2020)

Executive produced by the Obamas, Crip Camp tells the powerful story of a 1970s summer camp for teens with disabilities that helped ignite the U.S. disability rights movement. It’s an essential watch about accessibility, dignity, and how collective action drives lasting change.

12. Sergio (2020)

Based on the life of Brazilian UN diplomat Sérgio Vieira de Mello, Sergio offers a gripping portrayal of a man who fought for peace in the world’s most volatile regions. His work highlighted the complexities—and personal cost—of international human rights diplomacy.

13. First They Killed My Father (2017)

Directed by Angelina Jolie and based on Loung Ung’s memoir, this film recounts the Khmer Rouge regime’s atrocities through a child’s eyes. It’s a harrowing look at war, genocide, and survival—and a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

14. City of Joy (2016)

This documentary follows the creation of a leadership center in the Democratic Republic of Congo for women survivors of sexual violence. Raw, emotional, and inspiring, City of Joy highlights the strength of community healing and the fight for bodily autonomy.

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Please note: the views and opinions expressed on this blog are that of my own and do not represent the opinions of any agency mentioned.

Human Rights Movies to Watch on Netflix 2025