5.1
In co-operation with FIPRESCI, the International Federation of Film Critics, the award is presented to the European director(s) (see 3.4) of a first full-length European fiction film intended for theatrical release which meets the general eligibility criteria (see 3).
5.2
Furthermore, debut films must fulfil at least one of the following criteria to be eligible:
Having been selected at least at one major festival (see list of festivals)
Having been theatrically released in at least three countries for at least seven consecutive days or sold for such release
The Academy Board has the right to refrain from this rule in exceptional cases.
5.3
A committee composed of members of FIPRESCI and experts appointed by the Academy Board nominates six films in this category, 50% of which are to be directed by female and/or non-binary directors.
5.4
The nominations are made available for viewing to the Academy Members who vote for the winner.