UNDP IN IRAQ: REBUILDING LIVES AFTER ISIS

After victory was declared over ISIS in Iraq, the country began the long and difficult task of rebuilding its infrastructure and restoring the livelihoods that were destroyed during ISIS occupation and the subsequent battle to oust the terror group.

In addition to my photojournalism work, from September 2017 to June 2019 I worked as a photography consultant with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Iraq. My task was to capture images and photo stories that highlighted the progress and impact of UNDP-funded projects in areas affected by ISIS across the country. From the Old City of Mosul to the desert of western Anbar, I met and photographed many families and individuals determined to recover from the trauma of ISIS occupation and the battle for liberation.

Over the course of two years, I documented the positive change brought about as a result of UNDP’s work, focusing on the restoration of schools, hospitals, small businesses, roads and bridges, water and electricity systems, and empowering women and men to take an active role in rebuilding their towns and cities through cash-for-work initiatives.

It was a privilege to photograph the rebuilding efforts and to see first hand the impact they have on the people who benefit from them.