(Above) An Afghan girl in Torabora village (2004). © Reza/Webistan
World-renowned photographers including Reza, Mary Ellen Mark, Bruce Davidson and Jonathan Togovnik, have contributed images to a children’s rights campaign.
The initiative, which is being run by The World Photography Awards in collaboration with UNICEF, is asking anyone – from professional to amateur snappers – to contribute relevant photos to mark 20 years since the United Nations created The Convention On The Rights Of A Child.
David Beckham in Sierra Leone. © David Turnley/UNICEF
The convention pledges to protect children against violence, discrimination and harm, and has been signed by almost every country, making it the most widely-ratified human rights agreement in the world.
Celebrities including David Beckham and Ewan McGregor have also contributed images to the campaign. Of the entries put forward already, one of the most striking is a contribution from National Geographic photographer Reza, which depicts an Afghan girl, staring at the lens with piercing eyes.
Jean-Paul, Rwanda (2007). © Jonathan Torgovnik
Astrid Merget, Creative Director at The World Photography Organisation, called it an "obligation" to use the "powerful tool" of photography to address globally-important issues.
January 4 is the deadline for submissions. Some entries will be selected to appear as part of a special exhibition in Cannes in April. A separate competition for young photographers aged 12-18 is also running.
Visit the Awards online for more details.
