JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA — MARCH 25: Smoke and flame rose up from Saudi Aramco’s Jeddah oil depot in Saudi Arabia on March 25, 2022. A hostile attack by the Houthis targeted Aramco oil facility, says the Arab Coalition.

Fireball

The Long March-7 Y6 rocket carrying cargo spacecraft Tianzhou-5, the last cargo ship before the completion of the China Space Station, blasted off from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in China's Hainan Province on November 12, 2022. The photo, taken from an open village around the launch site, captured the moment of the rocket launch. China launched cargo spacecraft Tianzhou-5 to deliver supplies for the space station, which was completed by the end of 2022. From 2021 to 2022, China launched a series of space missions to complete the construction of the space station.

From Pastoral Songs to the Sea of Stars

A man working at a recycling factory surrounded by a huge pile of discarded plastic bottles. The image shows how our green earth is gradually becoming a plastic hell.

Plastic Hell

The dress rehearsal for the airborne part of the military parade to mark the 77th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

Remembering 1945

The Antonovsky automobile and pedestrian bridge across the Dnieper River connects Kherson with the left bank. In response to the request of the heads of the Donbass republics, the Russian Armed Forces launched the special military operation in Ukraine.

The Roads of War

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

Smoke from the fires over Mariupol.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

The military and sappers inspecting the tail of the Ukrainian Tochka-U missile that fell in the center of Donetsk.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

A woman killed by a Ukrainian missile strike in the center of Donetsk.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

Russian soldiers in Mariupol.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

A Mariupol resident, taking advantage of the ceasefire, comes out of the basement in search of food and supplies.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

A young man and woman mourning a relative killed by a Ukrainian missile attack in the center of Donetsk.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

Accommodation at the Writers’ Union House in Donetsk.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

A DPR self-defense fighter guarding a captive Ukrainian. Mariupol.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

Children have built a makeshift wooden shelter against Ukrainian shelling. Donetsk.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

A woman who lost a relative during a Ukrainian missile attack in Donetsk.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

A refugee from Mariupol.

These photos were taken from March 12 to March 20, 2022, when I visited the special military operation zone. Those days were easily the most difficult period of my life, because I saw people who had lived through all this in Donetsk and Mariupol.

Residents of Mariupol leave the burning city, taking advantage of the Green Corridor.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

An elderly woman standing in her neighbor’s burned-out house in Yelenovka, a village near Donetsk. A Ukrainian projectile directly hit the roof, and the house immediately caught fire. Fortunately, theownersurvived.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

A mother grieving over the body of her 14-year-old son who was traveling on a bus past the Donetsk central market, when it was hit by a Ukrainian projectile during a massive rocket attack. Six peopledied.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

An MRLS Grad projectile in a math classroom at Donetsk National University of Economics and Trade. Two floors of the building were seriously damaged. Although there were faculty members on one of the floors at the time of the Ukrainian attack, fortunately, everyone survived.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

Emergencies Ministry teams clear the rubble after a Ukrainian shell hit a shopping center in Donetsk. Two employees at a local pharmacy were killed; their bodies were found almost a day after the tragedy.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

An Emergencies Ministry team takes a rest after a long and grueling effort to extinguish a fire at an oil depot in Shakhtersk. The fuel tanks caught fire as a resut of a Ukrainian shelling attack.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

Medics and civilians carrying a Donetsk resident into an ambulance after she was wounded by shrapnel in a direct hit on her house by a Ukrainian shell.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

A man stands in confusion near his house, which was hit by a shell during a Ukrainian attack on the city.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

An icon hanging over a bed belonging to a woman who received multiple shrapnel wounds during Ukrainian shelling.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

A man smokes a cigarette amid the ruins of his house after yet another Ukrainian attack. His wife has been taken to hospital with multiple shrapnel wounds. He and his daughter were in other rooms and escaped injury.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

A civilian on a bicycle watching a fire at an oil depot caused by a Ukrainian rocket attack.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

A boy outside a damaged residential building in Panteleimonovka, where one person died when Ukraine fired a Tochka-U tactical missile at the village. The attack took place at night; the man was sleeping in his bed, while his son and wife were in other rooms. He died from his injuries on the spot.

“We just need to wait.” This is what a woman in Gorlovka said to me, when I was photographing her apartment destroyed by another Ukrainian attack. To wait for what? “For peace, of course. Just a little longer,” she replied. These people have been thinking of it for a long nine years. The conflict in Donbass began in 2014. It claimed or derailed thousands of lives, and left hundreds of people homeless. Many residents were forced to leave their homes, but most decided to stay and wait for the long-coveted peace on their land. This story is about the people who chose to stay in their homeland no matter what. In February 2022, the President of Russia signed the executive orders recognizing the LPR and DPR, and later Russia announced the special military operation to protect the residents of Donbass.

A terrible tragedy occurred at a Gorlovka secondary school in February 2022. Two woman teachers died from severe shrapnel wounds. Their mutilated bodies were found in one of the classrooms. The women were sitting peacefully at their desks, when a Ukrainian projectile hit the playground outside. There were no children in the school: schools in the DPR had transitioned to a remote learning system for security reasons.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

The century-old forest of Souto de Vilar was razed to the ground like the others. The village was also burnt to the ground. Only two houses were saved.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

The fire in O Courel leaves the southern part of the area devastated. Only a few villages could be saved because the native trees around them helped slow down the fire. The rest of the area, covered with pine and eucalyptus monocultures, burned violently en masse.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

Environmental agents are studying the advance of the fire to assess how to deal with it.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

Forest firefighters move around the site of the blaze to access the head of the fire.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

Neighbors try to stop the advance of the fire in front of houses in Froxán. There are few neighbours left in this area, and depopulation is one of the causes of today’s large forest fires.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

A firefighter monitors the fire’s advance in the O Courel mountains.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

Firefighters are awaiting the arrival of a helicopter to change position.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

Emilio takes a walk through his home town of Vilar which has been devastated by the fire.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

Exhausted forest firefighters from the Rio brigade taking a break from the hard and precarious work of extinguishing theRibas de Sil fire, O Courel.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

The fire in O Courel leaves the southern part of the area devastated. Only a few villages could be saved because the native trees around them helped slow down the fire. The rest of the area, covered with pine and eucalyptus monocultures, burned violently en masse.

Forest fires are a recurrent concern when the summer season begins. In fact, they have increased both in number and fierceness, and this fact is directly related to climate change. According to EFFIS (European Forest Fire Information System) data on fire seasons, 2022 was the worst year of the century: the area burnt in less than seven months already exceeded the total area burnt by fire in 2012, which was previously the worst year on record. By the middle of the summer season, the area burnt across the EU was three times the average of the last 15 years. As of August 6, 2022, Spain alone accounted for 40% (39.39%) of the total in the European Union in 2022, i.e. 235,575 hectares out of a total of 600,731 hectares. The worst fire in the history of Galicia, one of the regions in Europe which faces the greatest threat from forest fires, occurred this summer in O Courel. Part of it had already burned last year. The O Courel mountainous region is one of the most valuable natural areas in Europe.

The century-old forest of Souto de Vilar was one of many that were razed to the ground. The village was also destroyed. Only two houses were saved.

The image features Yegor Noskov, a player with the CSKA Moscow, in a match against his counterparts from Torpedo Moscow. While trying to keep the ball on the field, Yegor fell into a puddle, but this did not deter him. He was determined to keep the ball for his team.

Fighting to the end

A primary school student skiing at the empty school stadium.

Individual race

2022 Beijing Olympics, Speed Skating. General view inside the stadium during the warm up.

General view inside the stadium during the warm up

Lionel Messi has taken part in five FIFA World Cups, but his dream came true in Qatar, when the Argentina national team became champion for the first time since 1986.

Living the dream

Diver Stefan Jevtic jumps from the Old Bridge during the 456th traditional annual high diving competition in Mostar, Bosnia, July 31, 2022. A total of 31 divers from Bosnia and the neighboring countries leapt from the 23-meter-high bridge over the Neretva River. Photo taken by hand, not a remote camera shot.

Old Bridge Diving

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Biathlon. Athletes during the men’s 15 km mass start.

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Cross-country skiing. Quarterfinals. Athletes during the women’s sprint freestyle.

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Snowboard cross. Round of 16. From left: Chloe Trespeuch (France), Maria Vasiltsova (ROC), Zoe Bergermann (Canada) and Pia Zerkhold (Austria) during the event.

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Ski jumping. Men’s team event. Mikhail Nazarov (ROC).

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Slopestyle snowboarding training. An Australian athlete practices.

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Cross-country skiing. Men’s 4x10km relay. Alexander Bolshunov (ROC).

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Aerial skiing. Noe Roth (Switzerland) during the team event.

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Figure skating. Kamila Valieva (ROC) during the women’s free skate event.

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Women’s moguls. Finals. Jakara Anthony (Australia).

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Biathlon. Women. Linn Persson (Sweden) during training.

This series features highlights from the Russian Olympic Committee team’s performance at the 24th Beijing Olympics in February 2022.

Figure skating. Women’s free skate event. Anna Shcherbakova (ROC).

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

In early November, one of the first big buzkashi tournaments is taking place near the cement factory in the outskirts of Dushanbe. On this field, ideal for buzkashi, dozens of horse riders gather, hoping to win one of the money prizes.

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

A crowd of a hundred people also gathers in the sloping valley, where they sit comfortably and watch a couple of hours of horse racing.

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

Mamad Ali, and his horse, are taking a rest after hours of exhausting games which took place on a huge field 4 kms outside Dushanbe, near a cement factory. He works during the week in a botanical garden, where he offers horse tours to local tourists.

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

A chapandaz (horse rider) is getting ready to enter the game. As buzkashi is a dangerous sport, he is protecting himself with an old Soviet-style tank helmet, and reinforced boots and gloves.

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

Horse riders are fighting to drag the carcass of the dead goat. Reminiscent of a scrum in rugby, the person who finally succeeds in dragging the carcass will try to drop it between the markers. Наездники пытаются ухватить тушу козла

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

One of the rare women horse riders is taking a breath after an intense game. This sport is traditionally played by men but women are starting to get involved.

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

Some spectators are enjoying osh, a traditional meal from Tajikistan (called plov in Uzbekistan), while watching the ongoing game down in the valley.

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

One horse rider is forcing his horse to stop after he almost hurt the crowd which was quietly watching the buzkashi game on the slope.

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

Dozens of horse riders are trying to drag the dead goat from the ground. This moment, which is like a rugby scrum, is the most impressive of the game.

Every year, between November and April, when the temperature is chilly, the Buzkashi season opens in Tajikistan. Buzkashi — from the Persian words goat (“buz”) and drag (“kashi '') — has been played in Central Asia for centuries and involves horse riders — chapandaz — dragging a dead goat around markers across a huge field surrounded by hills. Every weekend, multiple events take place all over this mountainous country, offering surprising entertainment.

One chapandaz is about to cross the two markers, made of tires, and drop the carcass. Then he can expect a prize, starting from 10 somonis (1 USD).

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

Spectators are impatiently waiting for the start of the match. They give material and spiritual help to hold this competition, such as donating a cow or sheep, blankets or cash.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

Everything is being prepared for a local competition. Villagers install large loudspeakers in the square to report on games and perform live local music.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

After the cowardly loss of the wrestler Saadatpour, his friends take him to the judges' place to restore his rights.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

The wrestler's body is plastered when he falls. Locho competitions are held on clay and grass fields.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

The winning wrestler has received his prize.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

Locho Karan; Milad Nowrozi (red dress) local wrestling legend Locho is competing with his opponent in the final match. So far, he has never been defeated in Locho tournaments.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

Winner of the final battle. Muhammad's opponent was unable to stand at the final moment. Mohammad Pahlavan Akhlaq became the winner of this tournament.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

The wrestler known as Ebi is talking to the referee Seyed Ramadan (himself a Locho wrestler for many years). By carving the symbol of wrestling and the Olympics on his back, he wishes to participate in the Olympics.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

Milad Fathi, the champion of the competition, after receiving his prize, puts a sheep around his neck and walks around proudly.

Locho wrestling is one of the native and ritual sports of Mazandaran in Iran; Locho is a combination of two words of equal weight, Lo and Cho, each of which has a separate meaning. Lo means the edge and side of something and the word Cho means wood. Therefore, Locho refers to the edge of wood. Locho wrestling is one of Mazandaran's traditional wrestling sports. For many years, people have been rejoicing on the 26th of Tir, the 28th (July of the solar month), in a ritual known as the celebration of the dead, by preparing all kinds of local food and delicacies. During this celebration, traditional wrestling competitions are also held to identify the best wrestler in the region. Respecting elders and white-beards is an important characteristic of Locho And usually elderly peopleare in charge of organizing this ceremony. Locho involves both lightweight and heavyweight wrestling, and a sheep’s head is awarded to the best lightweight wrestler while a cow’s head is presented to the heavyweight winner.

Devoted spectators wait until nightfall for the winner of the games. The Locho wrestling matches have brought joy and happiness to the people of the region.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Young Muay Thai boxers jump over a skipping rope during a training session at ‘Boom, The Guru Kid Muay Thai Gym’ in Bangkok on September 14, 2022.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Twelve-year-old Muay Thai boxer Yodpetchtho (R) helps his twin brother Yodpetchaek (L) into his boxing gloves during a training session at ‘Boom, The Guru Kid Muay Thai Gym’ in Bangkok on September 14, 2022.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Two teenage Muay Thai boxers spar in the ring during a training session at ‘Boom, The Guru Kid Muay Thai Gym’ in Bangkok on September 14, 2022.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Urine samples are collected and Muay Thai fighters are weighed by staff at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 23, 2022 ahead of their fight.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Muay Thai boxers Petchnapha Sor Kanitsorn from Thailand (L) and Natalie Morgan from the United States (R) pose for photos at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 23, 2022 ahead of their fight.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Thai Muay Thai boxer Thidaphon Phetnongki is helped into her gloves ahead of a fight at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 24, 2022.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Muay Thai boxer Mahaddeseh Maradi, from Iran (R) strikes her opponent Thidaphon Phetnongki, from Thailand (C) during their fight at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 24, 2022.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

American Muay Thai boxer Natalie Morgan receives medical treatment for a cut to her face following her fight at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 24, 2022.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Muay Thai boxer Aaron Zackon, from the United States (L) strikes his opponent Long La, from Cambodia (R) during their fight at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 24, 2022.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Muay Thai boxer Aaron Zackon, from the United States (L) strikes his opponent Long La, from Cambodia (R) during their fight at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 24, 2022.

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Argentinian Muay Thai boxer Federico Agustin is checked by medical staff after being defeated by technical knockout in his fight at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 24, 2022.Врачи осматривают

Muay Thai, known as the “art of eight limbs” because of the different ways opponents can strike each other, with knees, fists, kicks, and elbows, is Thailand’s de facto national sport and a source of immense pride. Following the death of former South East Asian Games silver medallist Panphet Phadungchai after an elbow strike in July last year, there are growing calls for more safety regulation. Regular paid fights have long been one route out of poverty for children from rural Thailand, but the death of a 13-year-old in a bout in 2018 caused outrage in the kingdom. Youngsters can earn hundreds of dollars a fight from promoters and gamblers, but the bouts often take place outside any regulatory framework and without protective equipment. Despite the safety concerns, traditionalists are reluctant to bring in more safety measures as they believe it will dilute the character of the sport.

Cambodian Muay Thai boxer Long Samnang lies on the floor after being defeated by technical knockout at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on September 24, 2022.

Stilt fishermen community. The practice started during World War II when food shortages and overcrowded fishing spots prompted some clever men to try fishing on the water. This picture was taken on the northern coast of India.

The Dying Tradition through Circle

The brick field workers of Bangladesh start work early in the morning, when some of the workers make bricks while others carry them. A worker who makes between 1,000 and 1,500 bricks a day gets only 500 Tk (4.67 USD), which is barely enough to feed their families. The black smoke and dust in the brick fields have a severe impact on the workers’ health. They enter the body through the nose, mouth and ears affecting various parts of the body, especially the lungs. The workers get no social security benefits from the authorities. Most importantly, their basic human rights, such as the right to healthcare and education, are violated. According to Bangladesh Human Rights Commission (BHRC) and Department of Labor, brick field workers do not live long due to various health problems, including lung diseases.

Wounds Inside

A man rows his boat along the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi. Migratory birds come to India for the winter. They get to different parts of the country by October and usually leave in March.

Seagulls around Yamuna River

Farmers are processing jute in the lake. Jute sticks are left in fresh water for weeks so that the outer skin decomposes and peeling the fiber becomes easier. The sticks take on different colors depending on the stage of decomposition, which looks beautiful from above.

Processing Jute

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Olga is 91 years old and lives alone in a village in Lugo. A month ago, her son, who lived in the city, was forced to come and live with her, fearing that she might have a fall or a problem associated with her age and mobility.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

House abandoned after the death of the elderly person who lived there. Inside, everything is as she left it.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Luis lives alone in a house with no windows. His surroundings evoke moments from the past. He says that he doesn't alter the windows or fix the house because when he dies nobody will live there and the few relatives he has emigrated long ago.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Santiago lives in Mostade, a village of about thirty houses, where only he and his octogenarian mother, whom he cares for, live all year round. Santiago prepares chestnuts on a rainy winter afternoon.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Собранные Доминго яблоки так и остались на кухонном столе. Хранятся они хорошо – могут пролежать так всю зиму и не испортиться. Доминго 88 лет, он живет один в маленькой деревушке в А Фонсаграда.The apples that Domingo picked are still on top of the kitchen table They stay fresh over the winter. Domingo is 88 years old and lives alone in an isolated village in A Fonsagrada.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Domingo picks potatoes to make food. Domingo is 88 years old and lives alone in an isolated village in A Fonsagrada.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Luis has lived completely alone in Vilarbacú for more than fifteen years. His only company are his dogs.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

A tractor grows maize for a cow farm. The sector is in a deep crisis.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Carlos and Irene have a small beef cattle farm. They say that nowadays they have a hard time because the prices they receive are the same as they were thirty years ago and all other products have gone up.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Domingo prepares his food. He lives alone in an isolated village in A Fonsagrada despite his advanced age and mobility problems.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

A couple collects grass to feed their animals.

Demothanasia is the process by which political actions or omissions lead to the disappearance of a territory's population. Death by depopulation is slow and silent. It is merciless with territory, nature and heritage. The situation is no less dramatic for the people who live or, rather, resist in rural areas. Europe is the most ageing continent in the world. One of the regions most affected by ageing according to Eurostat is Galicia. There is a high percentage of elderly people with a lack of residential autonomy or with a certain degree of dependency who are reluctant to leave the land where they have lived all their lives. They live alone where care and assistance are conspicuous by their absence. Administrations fail to provide sufficient resources and the political actors involved display a passivity to the point of implicit violence, leading to extremely worrying social contexts. A large part of the ageing population is abandoned in these areas with a lack of care.

Luis lives in this house where he was born. He is 57 years old and currently works for the City Council. Ten years ago, his house caught fire. When the firefighters arrived, they were unable to prevent the damage, but he has continued to live there.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

Sea turtles are one of the marine species most affected by climate change. While the sea levels rise and stronger storms erode their beach habitats, higher temperatures can change ocean currents, potentially introducing sea turtles to new predators. Furthermore, according to several studies, there is a direct relationship between the sand temperature where the turtles nest and the gender of the offspring. The sand temperature, in fact, influences the gender of the offspring during incubation, favoring the birth of females and consequently resulting in a shortage of males. For years, the Royal Thai Navy has been involved in sea turtle conservation activities. Thanks to conservation centers throughout the country, they monitor and breed hawksbill and green turtles with the aim of releasing them into the sea and increasing their population.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

The local community in Trang during the seagrass transplanting activity in the Sikao Bay, Thailand. This project, involving the young generation, started in 2004 after a severe storm hit the coasts destroying a large part of the seabed. The pH and the 02 levels in the water began to gradually change, resulting in a loss of biodiversity. Thanks to these continuous efforts by the local community, since 2018 the seagrass planted at the beginning of the project has flourished. The health of the ecosystem gradually improved, with a noticeable increase in the fish population.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

Detail of a fisherman's arm and his fishing net in Tom Thong Yai village. One of the causes of the decrease in the fish population is overfishing practices by large boats in recent years. Fishing techniques with trawl nets and dynamite destroyed large areas of the reefs. Catching without distinction both adult and juvenile fish interrupts their life cycle and reduces their population. People have realized that in the long term these practices aren't profitable anymore due to a drastic decrease in the fish population in the bay. For this reason, in 2012 they decided to change the regulations and ban large boats from the bay, allowing just sustainable fishing practices using the long tail boats and the small fishing nets.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

In Amed, North East Bali, the women of the community play a key role in the coral reef restoration project. The opportunity to earn a stable income through conservation activities, and at the same time build a future for their children, made them more aware of the importance of the marine environment. Their role is to make concrete cube structures that will be used for corals transplantation. Furthermore, they have started to monitor the fishermen and protect the areas where conservation projects are underway, creating no-fishing zones.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

In November 2021 Coral Reef Care, a dutch NGO, began a collaboration with a local diving association Perkumpulan Pemandu Penyelam Amed (P3A) and the fishermen in Amed, North East Bali. Depending on the sea floor topography, they use different techniques. For flat areas, they developed a modular system of concrete cubes and bricks. The structures mimic the natural complexity of coral colonies in the sense that they provide many small refuge areas for fish and invertebrates. A diverse array of marine life is required to support and sustain a healthy reef ecosystem. On the concrete structures, they plant corals of opportunity i.e. coral fragments that have broken off healthy coral reefs, either naturally or by human impact. Planting these corals speeds up the creation of a new reef and slows down the settlement of other benthic organisms like algae, which can quickly take over.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

During a scientific expedition, a researcher from Ramkhamhaeng University is conducting a fish survey among the Acropora fields surrounding Koh Tao. This research is important to analyze how marine biodiversity is changing over the years and to estimate the impact of climate change on the migratory path of several fish species.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

A sample of Pocillopora Acuta is being tested in a continuous nitrogen chamber recreating a hypoxic condition inside the laboratory of MACORIN (Marine and Coastal Research Institute) at Prince of Songkla University. Hypoxic conditions mean that the oxygen level is less than 2 mg/l. Low oxygen levels have an extreme impact on corals, causing very fast tissue loss, even in a short period of 10 days.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

Daw (33) has been working for five years as a fisherman on the big boats in the Thailand Gulf. He sails with a crew of six to eight people, all working in poor conditions in order to give their families a decent livelihood. They navigate the open seas, their long trips lasting between one and two months, and return to the mainland for just few days to reorganize themselves. During these trip, a single boat can consume up to 400 liters of diesel per day, using the seawater to cool down the engine and as a result, contaminating the ocean with kerosene. Big companies expect them to catch a massive amount of fish daily (up to 3 tons) using unsustainable practices such as trawl nets to satisfy the vast demand of the national market.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

The Blackfin barracuda (Sphyraena qenie), also known as the Chevron barracuda, is a species of barracuda that is in high demand especially in Southern Thailand. Barracuda play an important role in marine food webs because they remove sick and vulnerable members of prey fish populations. However, anything that threatens coral reefs, seagrass beds, or mangrove forests is a threat to barracudas. These include coastal development, ocean acidification, marine debris pollution, overfishing and excessive nutrients that lead to harmful algal blooms.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

A villager goes in search of sea shells at low tide in the southern bay of Koh Libong. Due to severe storms in recent years, the seabed structure changed, and the wider leaf seagrass stopped growing naturally, with a severe impact on the marine ecosystem. On top of that, mud, sediment and polluted water coming from Trang city play a crucial role in these changes, which are having a severe impact even on community life. Low-income families who can't afford a long tail boat to go fishing in the deep sea, used to go daily into the bay at low tide to collect shellfish to sell in the local markets. This has always been good business for them, as in Koh Libong it is possible to find a particular species of spiral shellfish that is in high demand in local restaurants. Today people can no longer rely on this activity as the once common spiral shellfish are slowly disappearing.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

Officers from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation involved in seagrass transplantation in Koh Libong. The Koh Libong coastal environment has approximately 32 square km of seagrass cover, with up to 12 different species. Currently in the coastal area, 16 square km of seagrass is in poor health, while it has already died in a 3.2 square km area. The ecosystem of the island has completely changed: in the past 10 years the seagrass could grow up to 120cm, but now the maximum growth is around 20cm. Due to the environmental changes, the temperature is noticeably increasing in the shallower water as previously, the seagrass provided shade for the seabed. Mollusks and other small fish can’t stand this new hotter environment. Furthermore, the loss of seagrass has a strong impact on the mammal population such as dugong, which rely on seagrass as a mainstay of their diet.

According to IPCC reports, Thailand and Indonesia have been classified among the most vulnerable countries to climate change. The oceans’ health in this area is in serious decline: climate change-related phenomena and anthropological stressors, such as pollution and overfishing practices, have destroyed 40% of coral reefs, while fish stocks continue to decline and consumption patterns remain unsustainable. These and other pressures exacerbate climate-induced ocean acidification and warming and weaken the capacity of the oceans to mitigate the impact of climate change, also threatening the fishing industry on which 200 million people in the Indo-Pacific depend for food and jobs. Symbiosis demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate change-related issues, investigating the direct effect of these phenomena on the marine environment, and highlighting the positive solutions that both local communities and scientific authorities are implementing to preserve the health of the marine ecosystem for our future.

The fish houses project (Sai-Nang) in Tom Thong Yai bay. Sai-Nang are built using bamboo sticks and palm leaves. The local community started this project 15 years ago to preserve the environment by discouraging the use of destructive fishing practices in the bay. The palm leaves around the bamboo sticks provide a safe place where fish can shelter and breed, increasing the fish population in the bay. Since the project started, they have built 100 to 500 fish houses per year. Due to the natural decomposition of the bamboo and the palm leaves, the fish houses have to be replaced annually. Since the launch of the project, the fish population (especially tuna, black pomfret, grouper, mackerel) has noticeably increased in the bay.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

Loading cargo aboard the Mikhail Somov research and expedition vessel. Mechanic Ivan Matyushev commands the crew to fasten the cargo.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

The cargo crew of the Mikhail Somov research and expedition vessel. An Mi-8 helicopter collects empty fuel barrels.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

A scheduled inspection of the meteorological observation platform. Employees with the Northern Directorate for Hydrometeorology, Mikhail Cheshkov and Georgy Kokorin, install a new mast at the autonomous meteorological station.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

The Admiral Kolchak tugboat has found its final resting place at the northernmost shore of Eurasia, Cape Chelyuskin. The tugboat, corroding in the salty water, is a reminder that the Arctic is an uncontrollable force of nature.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

Transporting containers. Pavel Radionovsky, the fourth electrical engineer of the Mikhail Somov vessel, waits for the helicopter. The chapel, built in 2009 to commemorate the pioneers of the Northern Sea Route, is one of the northernmost chapels in the world (located at 75 degrees north latitude).

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

A long-awaited meeting: Olga Baikova, acting head of the expedition, hugs Alexandra Komchumbayeva, head of the station. The vessel has brought two employees; one of them is Alexandra’s son.v

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

The outskirts of the Kamenka hydrometeorological base. First autumn frost.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

An Mi-8 helicopter delivers a container to Pevek.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

Halo, the white sun of the polar desert, near the Valkarkay polar station. The station became famous after the movie, How I Spent the Summer, directed by Alexei Popogrebsky.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

Polar bears pose the main threat to a polar explorer’s life. The deserted houses that surround polar stations are often used as dens, which complicates the already hard work of a polar explorer.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

Concluding the work at the polar station. The crew and expedition members on their way to the Mi-8 helicopter which will take them aboard a vessel.

The Northern Sea Route stretches from the Kara Strait in the west to the Bering Strait in the east. The harsh ice conditions and severe Arctic climate are the main obstacles to navigation in the region. The Arctic summer is short, but during the warmer months, the Mikhail Somov, a legendary diesel-electric vessel, manages to make two voyages. The entire route, with all the drop-off points, is carefully thought-out. Most of the stops are located on steep, rocky shores. Others are located in the shallow waters of the northern seas. In such cases, an Mi-8 helicopter from the 2nd Arkhangelsk United Aviation Division comes to help deliver the cargo.

Aurora Borealis, the harbinger of a polar night.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

Rural fishermen’s children are busy alongside their parents during this season as everyone wants to get major catch. The use poles to catch fish in shallow waters.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

A lonely fisherman during the foggy winter season using a net to catch fish from the mossy river.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

Fishermen use nets as the filtering process in which they tend to catch a bulk amount of fish in one go.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

When the kids see any hint of a fish moving in the river, they rush to that specific spot to catch and get hold of the fish.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

Working in the open air and direct sunlight from early in the morning, fishermen can get tired. They take shelter in a shady spot so that they can start afresh later in the day.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

Fishermen often spread their nets in such a way that they look like neckless from an upper angle and wait for a bulk amount of fish to be caught in their trap.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

A spontaneous moment when two fishermen in different boats throw their nets at the same time.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

Fishermen use large pieces of cloth hanging up on their boats as sails, so that they can quickly reach a specific spot whenever they see any fish moving in a particular area of the river. They throw their big circular nets to catch fish in bulk quantities.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

After a successful catch, the fishermen draw in their nets to collect the fish in one part of the boat and take them to the local market to be sold.

During the winter season, the water in rivers gets dried up and mosses begin to pop up from underneath. People from the rural areas, who rely on fishing for their daily wages, tend to catch fish in this mossy river. They start very early in the morning, before any other boatman began catching fish at a bulk level and then they sell their catch in the local market to earn a daily wage. They even fish in groups, using different kinds of fishing nets in various processes, to catch a large number of fish in one go. Afterwards, they sell the entire catch and divide the wages equally among them.

Fishermen try to coordinare their work, using big fishing nets and spreading them out between four boats to cover a larger part of the river and catch fish in bulk.

In biology, imago is the last stage of an insect during its metamorphosis. In psychology, the concept was introduced by Carl Gustav Jung and denotes a subconscious mental archetype through which we see other people. This picture of a passer-by with an earflaps hat, face mask and wings reminds me of a tired archangel who lives next door.

Imago

A man is meditating in a secret waterfall in Maharashtra.

Meditation

Ajab Muhammad Miftah, 54, poses for a portrait in her house in the village of Ezbat Soliman, Fayoum, Egypt, on September 22, 2022. The hands supporting her belong to her daughters, who have been supporting her since she lost her husband and two of her young sons in a microbus accident during their trip to Aswan. In order to make a living, fishermen make the trip from the Fayoum governorate to Lake Nasser in the Aswan governorate, which is more than 825 km from Fayoum. It became a trip of death after they had to abandon Lake Qarun, where they used to fish, due to the pollution in the area.

Part of The Lost Lake series, a long-term project

A miner pushes a chrome wagon. Miners risk their lives every day for a monthly salary of around $350.

Μines Αlbania

Abdul Latief, 62, has been a fisherman for 37 years. Since the sea has penetrated deeper inland, the wind became stronger and fish are harder to find. Nowadays he spends more money on fuel for his boat than what he can earn. His house flooded for the first time in 2008 and since then he has already elevated it twice, in 2009 and 2019. Today floods are getting higher but Abdul hasn't got enough money to elevate his house again. His family wants to move inland but for Abdul fishing is his life.

Coexisting with climate change

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

My brother and his dogMaikko, the family's dog, and Antoine have a strong relationship. My brother has always loved the presence of animals, like many other people with Autistic Spectrum Disorders who enjoy being surrounded by them. Most of the time, there is a strong link between them because they share a preliterate and instinctive langage.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Mango Juice and PillsEveryday, Lilou sits in the kitchen, and takes his pills with some mango juice and salted crackers. The medicines help him in his everyday life, specifically to avoid sensory overload that can cause a nervous breakdown with his condition. The public does not know much about this.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Lilou's gazeAfter breakfast, he goes back upstairs and instinctively reaches the bathroom. He takes off his pyjamas and gets directly into the bathtub to take a shower. It's only during the shower that he starts to feel awake. The light touch of the water on his palms is enjoyable. Touch is definitily his most important sense.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Foam party When we were younger, Lilou really liked taking a bath. On the side of the bathtub, there were lots of bottles with shampoo and shower gels. One day, he emptied all the bottles into the bath and the foam came up to the ceiling. In the middle of the foam, there was a hole for his face. Когда мы были помладше

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

The eye of Lilou My brother has developed a non-verbal language by using objects. He gives us his shoes when he wants to go outside and explore the world. A plate means that he is hungry and a glass shows he’s thursty. My brother has always needed to be reassured. To feel good, he needs to follow a routine and do things at the same time in the same place. Waking up, walking or going to bed at the same hour, everyday. He doesn’t like change. He loves being surrounded by nature, especially contact with water.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Invisible stains There is an immense chasm in our society left by a colossal lack of representation of people with autism. Unless you live with this disability on a daily basis, who can really say they understand it? Awareness necessarily goes hand in hand with a demonstration. And this is where the photographic medium takes on its full meaning, and can help provide some key elements about the autistic world.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Lilou Gainsbourg This is one one of the first pictures I took of Lilou. To record memories. On that day, we were at Disneyland in Paris because my brother loves the rollercoaster. So this picture was taken in the queue of a 3D ride. With his glasses, he really looked like a rockstar. This is not the kind of thing we are used to seeing when we think about autistic people.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Sensory overloadDue to his autism, Lilou can sometimes have a sensory overload, so he often needs to be in a quiet place and in complete darkness. The colors, the light, the noises, the smells all put together, can make him feel anxious. This is one of the main characteristics of autism.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Lilou's smile Of course, there were some difficult moments my brother had to endure because of autism, but what his unique perception of the world has taught us was more important than anything else. He has taught us hedonism, altruism and humanism. Antoine and I have a strong relationship and by using the camera, we create our own patterns of interaction. Undoubtedly the fact of growing up with his autism has encouraged me to develop a certain sensibility, an artistic flair, and to shape my personality.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

The love of a mother This photograph is evidence of mother’s love, even if her child is different. It also shows the everyday life of a person with autism, which society can’t really imagine.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Silhouettes It is one of my first analog photos. We were walking along the seashore during the Photography Festival Les Planches Contact in Deauville, near Peter Lindberghs exhibition, when Antoine instinctively got into position in front of a print, as if he were also one of the models. In a way, this is a photograph inside a photograph.

Around 650,000 people in France have Autism Spectrum Disorders — it is definitely becoming essential to understand them and listen to them. Only 0.5% of these people could work in an ordinary environment, which obviously delays any inclusion strategy. A disconcerting reality when we know that learning and socialization are the only real ways to build an independent future. French photographer Lucie Hodiesne Darras knows this reality well. This is evidenced by her documentary series Lilou, started in 2018, in which she captures the daily life of her brother Antoine, who has ASD. "Lilou is the nickname we gave my brother Antoine, who is now 34 years old. He is an exceptional person, living in a world different from ours." Through this visual ensemble, we can discover its fantastic protagonist, a complex person full of life. Incredibly poignant, the Lilou images communicate the diversity of emotions that run through his life.

Socks and shoesWhen he comes home, Antoine takes off his shoes and socks right in front of the stairs to help him relax.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Renilde MbanzendorereAged 47, she is one of the women who survive thanks to the Buterere dump in Bujumbura. Her husband is also part of the collectors at the dump. She is a mother of seven children, and her biggest wish is to get out of the dump and to be able to earn a living in a different way.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Aline NgendakumanaA 50-year-old single woman, mother of seven children. Resident of the Buterere zone in the urban community of Ntahangwa, northwest of the city of Bujumbura. Her husband left her for someone else a few years ago and took all their possessions with him (goats, cows, etc.), which allowed him to live with dignity. Then she lost her house to the floods that Bujumbura suffered recently. Fortunately, four of her children were already married, and she sent two more to her parents in the village and stayed with her youngest. Today, she survives thanks to the largest dump in Bujumbura.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Ciza DomitileA 70-year-old woman, a wife and mother, she is one of the women who survive thanks to the Kinyankonge landfill in Buterere in the northwest of Bujumbura. Her husband also rummages at the dump. They had four children and all of them got married. She has been collecting enough to survive at this dump since 1972.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Maria Siniremera A 73-year-old woman who, the day I met her, had just lost her husband and her son. But despite all this, she came to the dump."Where do you think I will find my food?" she asked me. She was very sad.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Yvette NiyongabireA 31 year-old, she is a young single mother of five children, the oldest of whom is 11 years old and the youngest is 3 years old. She was abandoned by her husband. She lives today with her children in a house under construction whose owner gave them permission to stay there because he took pity on them. She manages to feed her children thanks to the dump.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Mediatrice NiyibitangaAged 37, she is a widow and a mother of four children. She comes to the dump to be able to feed her children. "It's not easy but I have no other choice," she told me.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Elisabeth NyandwiAged 65, she lives alone with her husband, who also collects at the dump.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Adeline Mushimiyimana23 years old, Adeline is one of the women of the dump, married, a mother of three children. Her husband also collects at the dump.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Chantal MiburoA 26-year-old single mother, Chantal is one of the women who survive thanks to the Kinyankonge landfill in Buterere in the northwest of Bujumbura. She was a mother of three children (a 2-year-old child and newborn twins), but recently one of the twins died due to illnesses and the other is suffering from poor health too. She raises her children alone because their father does not want them.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Emmanueline NdimurwankoAged 45, she had nine children from her first husband, who left her for another woman. Then she committed to the man she lives with today, and they had a child together. Four of her ten children have died. She manages to feed her family thanks to the dump. Her new husband helps her at the dump.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

Daphrose HabimanaA 35-year-old woman, wife and mother, she is one of the women who survive thanks to the Kinyankonge landfill in Buterere in the northwest of Bujumbura. Her husband repairs plastic household utensils. Between them, they barely manage to find enough to survive. They had eight children together but only four of them survived. They entrusted two of the four surviving children to their extended family because they could not afford to send them to school. Every day is an endless struggle to survive, she told me.

This is a series of portraits resulting from the "Women of the Dump" project, which tells the story of women and their families who survive thanks to the largest landfills in the city of Bujumbura. Most are either widowed or abandoned by their husbands. They earn their living by collecting charcoal, bones, plastic bottles, basins,plastic seals, and scrap metal, which they resell and manage to earn around 2000 Fbu per day, or about $1 per day. On the other hand, they feed directly from the landfill (if they are lucky, of course). They are queens. Strong in their tenacity in the face of adversity, they survive the ups and downs of everyday life on their own and manage, for better or worse, to take care of their children andtheir families. Managing to live on nothing is a miracle, and women in the dump do it every day. These are queens who are asleep at the moment.

ShurweOnly 16 years old, she is a young woman who was impregnated by an older man. She was expelled from school because she was pregnant. Today, in order to provide for her child, she has to collect rubbish at the dump.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

MadnessMy uncle Carlos, nicknamed Lito, 53 years old, suffers from schizophrenia and severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. Lito sticks his head out the door of a washing machine.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

Lito’s kindness Lito is a very nice and kind person. When we were kids, he always gave us candy and coins that he had left over from shopping. My mother Virginia always challenges him because he doesn't eat enough and gives half of his meal to his best friend, the neighbor's cat.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

Days without flowersLito’s days are all the same: grey, without sun or love. He's always locked up at home, afraid of the street, people and light. He can't work because of his disability, he doesn't talk or meet new people, he just plays with his cat and waits for me and my family to visit.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

The lonelinessMy uncle Lito lives in Burzaco, on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, Argentina. My family and I visit him on Sundays in the afternoon. Our visit is the only motivation in his day-to-day existence. “Loneliness” is an important word in Lito's mind and life. His suicide attempts, injuries and dangerous behavior are often caused by him being alone. Despite the distance and the difficult situation, my family and I have never let go of Lito.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

The corner of memoriesLito is a person with a lot of memories; he always remembers and talks about his past, when he worked, his travels and his lost loves. He often weeps when he thinks about the past, his parents and his youth. He writes down his most cherished memories and puts them up on the walls. One of his favorite places is this corner of his room.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

The SchizophreniaLito hears noises that aren't there, feels and sees things that don't exist. It is normal to receive two or three calls a week from Lito saying that he heard or saw something at his house. Even though nothing really happened.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

LitoA shadow covers Lito's head as he stands in front ofthe main wall of his house.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

Two different pathsVirginia and Lito are brother and sister, born a year apart. Despite the disease and the problems that come with it, they have a great relationship. My mother loves him deeply. So, even though she's on the other side of the fence, she's never left him. My mother saved him many times from injury and death.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

НygieneMy family and I visit Lito twice a month. When we go to his house, the conditions in which he lives are terrible. His pants are wet, his beard is overgrown and his clothes are all dirty. Every time we go, my mother cuts his beard, hair and nails. He doesn't like it, and he doesn't usually do it himself.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

Lito looks through the viewer at the front door of his house.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

The shed of melancholy The shed at my uncle Lito's house, where he has stored various objects, garbage and his most precious memories for more than 50 years.

My uncle Carlos is 53 years old. Since birth, he has suffered from schizophrenia and has severe developmental delay, which seriously affects his mental health. The situation became even worse when he reached adolescence. This is when his problems and symptoms became apparent and began to affect his daily life. Today, after several decades, the reality is critical, the desire to take his own life is increasing, there are fewer and fewer days when he steps on the sidewalk, he cannot talk the way he did before, sadness grows and hope diminishes with every passing day. His only light in the morning is my mom, my two brothers and me. We are the only reason why he has the strength to keep walking the path of madness, why he swallows hundreds of pills a week, dares to get up, turn on the radio and change the shirt he has been wearing for a month. I have been visiting his house for 18 years, and one day he woke me up to tell me about his life, his mind, how a person with mental health problems lives, feels and thinks.

The window without freedomLito between the grate and the window

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

Songs of the MadmanOn a train moving at 50 km/h, a Baul is seated on the corroded metal roof and loses himself in the ocean of music. Wealth is contrary to their pursuit of life, so they risk their lives by riding on the roof of a train, where they have nothing to hold on to.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

InherentThe true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. Apart from the body and mind, they also cherish nature because they believe that all spiritual life is deeply rooted in the core of nature.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

ExistenceIn Bauls’ philosophy, the human body has the highest value. The human body is composed of Pancha-bhuta (air, water, sky, earth, and fire) and is the dwelling place of God.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

CoreAs he embraces his young student after many years, the Baul Guru cannot hold back his tears. Moments of togetherness create an emotional and spiritual atmosphere. Their tears convey love, respect, and empathy for each other. The Bauls follow a mystic philosophy. They accept the concept of the traditional Guru. We find ‘Murshid’ or ‘Shaikh’ or ‘shaykh’ as preceptors in Sufism. This tradition is carried forward in the Bauls’ Guru, who helps them find the way towards learning the Ultimate Truth.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

Twilight of a LifeTheBauls express unconventional thoughts in their songs, which reflect our own lives. The lyrics are interwoven with mysticism and metaphors. The songs are usually performed by a sole vocalist accompanied by a one-stringed instrument, the Khamak, which is a symbol of unity and peace.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

RealizationIn the Bauls adhana, the human body is regarded as the ultimate reality. One can unite with the Supreme Being through the human body.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

Drowning MemoriesA Baul lives on alms, a way of life that is free of family bonds and past memories. They move from village to village living on alms.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

Where the Lord ResidesA Baul lost in himself amidst an ocean of music. Bauls believe the human body is a temple where the Lord resides. One can unite with the Lord through intense moments of music, they believe.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

A soul unchainedAn unchained soul is supposed to have the characteristics of ultimate reality. An unchained soul is something that comes from the inside, which is within everyone. The liberation of the soul is possible only if a Baul gains an insight into the truth during an ecstatic moment of the mystic union of the Supreme Being and the self. They attain divine love and bliss and feel spiritual joy at that moment. It leads to the desired goal of a total elimination of all misery.

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.

The Unchained BirdThe world of Gods, good and evil, the abstract and tangible all refer back to the same vital force. Life is one and all its forms interact. This means that the Baul searches within himself for the truth, "the rare and unknown bird," the something uncatchable which sometimes sings within us and makes us men of heart.