ANKARA: The fourth event commemorating the 10th anniversary of Anadolu’s Istanbul Photo Awards opened in Ankara at the CerModern Arts Center, showcasing a collection of award-winning photographs from the prestigious news photography competition. The exhibition in Ankara follows previous displays in Istanbul, New York, and Brussels.
According to Anadolu Agency, the opening ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Anadolu CEO Serdar Karagoz, Palestinian Ambassador to Trkiye Faed Mustafa, Serbian Ambassador to Trkiye Aca Jovanovic, and Nicaraguan Ambassador to Trkiye Tatiana Daniela Garcia. In his address, Karagoz highlighted ongoing global issues, emphasizing the role of journalists in documenting such events. He particularly referred to Mohammed Salem’s award-winning photograph, “A Palestinian Woman Embraces the Body of Her Niece,” as a poignant reminder of the situation in Palestine.
Karagoz stressed the importance of journalism in revealing truth, citing Anadolu’s publications that docum
ent alleged war crimes. He encouraged global participation in the Istanbul Photo Awards, noting that submissions for the 2025 contest are now open. This year’s exhibition also includes images reflecting significant global events, such as the February 2023 earthquakes in southern Trkiye.
The 2024 Istanbul Photo Awards attracted over 20,000 entries, with photographers competing across ten categories. Supported by sponsors including Turkcell, Sony, and Turkish Airlines, the event also receives international backing from the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).
Serbian Ambassador Jovanovic remarked on the powerful impact of the photographs, acknowledging the great pain and sadness they depict. He expressed particular admiration for the photograph that won first prize in the contest. Applications for the 2025 contest will remain open until January 10, 2025, inviting photographers worldwide to participate.