A beautifully composed political documentary investigating the decentralization process in Mali, J'Y CROIS is the new film from noted African Studies scholar Emile Adriaan van Rouveroy van Nieuwaal (Leiden University), and his son ethnographic filmmaker Maarten van Rouveroy van Nieuwaal.

Since the 1990s, decentralization reforms have been a top priority in this West African country. The aim is to transfer political and economic power to the democratically elected political bodies in decentralized communities. The Malian expression "a cauldron does not boil at the top, but from below" illustrates the importance for the government to convince the people Mali of the rationale and fairness of the decentralization policy, and to increase their participation.

From the desert sands of the north, in the ancient city of Ségou, on the banks of the Niger river, and to the agricultural fields in the south, this film looks at the reforms from the perspective of all Malians involved.

The slogan "government belongs at home" cannot be undone. There is no way back for Mali - only forward - but it's still a long way to go.

Select Accolades

• 2004 American Anthropological Association Film Festival
• 2004 African Studies Association Film Festival
• 2004 Bilan du Film Ethnographic (Paris)