Short Film News (SFN) - British filmmaker Michael Apted has been chosen as jury co-chair for the Democracy Video Challenge, a competition sponsored by the United Nations.

Citizens from around the world are invited to submit three-minute videos online that define the nature of democracy and engage in a global dialogue on its meaning.

The Challenge launched online and at the U.N. on September 15, and deadline for submissions is January 31.

"The young filmmakers taking part in this challenge will harness the magic of this powerful art form to connect to people around the world in a global discussion on democracy," Apted said.

Apted who has served as DGA president for the past six years, will oversee the selection of 21 finalists, who will represent six parts of the world.

In the spring, online voters will then pick the winner of each regional section, and they will be flown to Washington, New York and Hollywood to meet leaders from film schools, government and nongovernmental organizations. The winners will also screen their films for the DGA and MPAA.

YouTube is providing the video platform, and WMA is providing part of the prize package.