Photography serves as a powerful medium, capturing pivotal moments and unseen details. It is particularly significant in showcasing the lives and challenges faced by individuals in the Global South. El-Balad presents key photo-driven stories highlighting diverse themes from 2025.

Captivating Portraits of Resilience and Humanity

Environmental Concerns in Dalian, China

A polar bear residing at the Dalian Forest Zoo resides in an area significantly smaller than its natural habitat, which can span up to 31,000 square miles. The image raises concerns about wildlife conservation and the impact of human activities on nature. This portrayal reflects themes from the book “The Anthropocene Illusion,” addressing humanity’s effect on the Earth.

Awareness of Female Genital Schistosomiasis

Photographer Miora Rajaonary captured portraits of women in Madagascar who bravely posed to raise awareness about female genital schistosomiasis (FGS). This neglected tropical disease affects approximately 56 million women and girls globally, predominantly in Africa. The stigmatizing symptoms often resemble those of sexually transmitted diseases, complicating their fight for recognition and treatment.

The Lives of Zama Zamas in Ermelo, South Africa

In Ermelo, South Africa, artisanal coal miners, known as zama zamas, risk their lives to salvage coal from abandoned mines. These miners face perilous conditions while trying to support their families in an area plagued by high unemployment and poverty. Their stories highlight the struggles of those who take desperate chances for survival.

Healing Through Traditional Soups

In Catalonia, Spain, Angela Farre Palacin, aged 87, prepares sopa de farigola, a traditional soup believed to remedy various ailments. This dish, made with thyme, day-old bread, eggs, and olive oil, exemplifies the global importance of comfort foods during challenging times.

Challenges Faced by Vulnerable Populations

Impact of U.S. Aid Cuts in Zambia

Catherine Mwaloe, a 16-year-old girl from Zambia, struggles with limited access to HIV medication due to recent U.S. aid cuts. After an investigation into her situation, the Zambian government implemented a new system to ensure continued access to necessary drugs. However, she remains anxious about securing enough food, which was previously supported by U.S. programs.

The Nomadic Lifestyle of Mongolia’s Dukha Reindeer Herders

Children in the Siberian taiga of northern Mongolia engage with technology despite their remote surroundings. Watching documentaries about traditional lifestyles, they connect with the outside world through solar panels and car batteries, demonstrating the blending of ancient customs with modern advancements.

Honoring Women Through Art

The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky, has hosted an exhibition titled “Iconic Women: From Everyday Life to Global Heroes” to honor women’s achievements. The exhibition features diverse narratives, from an ‘analog’ astronaut to a watermelon farmer, showcasing the strength and resilience of women across various backgrounds.

• Key Themes:

• Environmental Issues

• Women’s Health Awareness

• Socio-economic Challenges

• Traditional Practices

• Notable Statistics:

• 56 million women affected by FGS globally

• 31,000 square miles – polar bear’s natural range

These poignant photographic stories bring forth critical issues that deserve attention and action. Through the lens of photography, we grasp the complexities of life across different cultures and communities worldwide, reinforcing the importance of empathy and understanding.