As Afghanistan fades from the headlines, journalist visas become harder to obtain, making it challenging for the media to cover the country. Despite the obstacles, Iranian photographer Hashem Shakeri managed to capture the haunting realities of Afghan life in his extensive project, Staring into the Abyss. His exhibition at the Bristol Photo Festival showcases the resilience and trauma of a people stripped of hope by decades of war.
‘No glimmer of hope left’
Through intimate portraits and stories, Shakeri reveals the struggles of Afghans living under Taliban rule. From a student turned teacher to a journalism student turned activist, these individuals exemplify the resilience and defiance of the Afghan spirit. The exhibition sheds light on the plight of Afghan women, men, and minorities like the Shiite Hazara community.
Despite facing terror and despair, these individuals continue to fight for their rights and dreams, often resorting to exile to escape oppression. Shakeri’s poignant images capture the raw emotions and challenges faced by Afghans in a country overshadowed by conflict and turmoil.