Photographic exhibition reflects flights to safety

An upcoming exhibition in Nicosia brings forth the reality of humanitarian crises. On the occasion of World Refugee Day 2022, the UNHCR Country Office in Cyprus and Universitas Foundation present the photographic exhibition Fleeing to Safety, by Sebastian Rich, curated by Stefanos Kouratzis.

The exhibition launch will take place on June 20 at Kastelliotissa in Nicosia, remaining open until June 24. Visitors are invited to explore the photos of refugees, asylum-seekers and other forcibly displaced persons captured by Rich in Cyprus and around the world.

During his career, Rich has photographed humanitarian crises caused by war and conflict globally, shedding light on the lives of refugees, their pain and suffering, and their dreams and hopes. The personal stories and portraits featured in the exhibition are a stark reminder that every person has the right to seek safety.

“More than 100 million children, women and men are forced to flee conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecution around the world,” say the organisers. “Therefore, it is important to address and resolve the underlying causes that force innocent people to flee their homes. Meanwhile, it is equally important to protect people forced to flee and to reaffirm their right to seek asylum with safe access, respect and dignity.

“Every year on June 20, the world marks World Refugee Day to honour the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. This year, the focus is on the right to seek safety. World Refugee Day,” they conclude, “is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for the plight of all those who are forced to flee and to recognise their resilience in rebuilding their lives. While it is important to protect and improve the lives of refugees every single day, international days like World Refugee Day help to focus global attention on the plight of those fleeing conflict or persecution.”

Fleeting to Safety

Photography exhibition by Sebastian Rich, curated by Stefanos Kouratzis. June 20-24. Kastelliotissa Hall, Nicosia. Opening night: 7pm. Daily: 10am-8pm. www.unhcr.org/cy