World Press Photo 2023 regional winners showcase importance of photojournalism

WARNING: Some of the images featured in this article contain graphic content that some readers may find disturbing.

The World Press Photo has announced the regional winners of its 2023 photo contest.

The selection includes images which showcase stories from photojournalists and documentary photographers across every continent. They call attention to the pressing issues facing the world today - from the documentation of the war in Ukraine and historic protests in Iran to the realities of the climate crisis and Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

Out of more than 60,000 entries by 3,752 entrants from 127 countries, the jury selected 24 winners and six honourable mentions.

Executive Director of the World Press Photo Foundation Joumana El Zein Khoury said: “In a world where dozens of journalists are still killed in the line of duty every year, I could not stop thinking about the journeys and risks these photographers – and often, their subjects – take to bring us these images of our world. I am humbled to present this selection and honoured that we will be able to bring the vital stories they tell to millions more people.” 

Take a look at some of the powerful and incredibly moving entries: 

13 MAY, 2022 - Israeli police beat mourners accompanying the coffin of Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh to her funeral, in East Jerusalem. Police prohibited people from carrying the coffin on foot through the city, as mourners chanted “We sacrifice our soul and blood for you, Shireen.”

19 JANUARY, 2022 - Unable to afford food for the family, the parents of Khalil Ahmad (15) decided to sell his kidney for US$3,500. The lack of jobs and the threat of starvation has led to a dramatic increase in the illegal organ trade. Herat, Afghanistan.

Soha