The prestigious 2025 World Press Photo of the Year was awarded to Palestinian photojournalist Samar Abu Elouf for her moving portrait of Mahmoud Ajjour, a nine-year-old boy from Gaza who lost both arms in an Israeli attack in March 2024.

The announcement of the award coincided with the tragic news of the death of photojournalist Fatma Hassona in another Israeli attack, highlighting the severe risks faced by journalists in conflict zones.

The exhibition featuring the winning images aims to raise awareness about global conflicts and humanitarian crises, fostering empathy through powerful photography.

Abu Elouf has been a significant voice in documenting the realities of life in Gaza since 2010, focusing on the impact of the ongoing conflict on civilians, especially women and children.

Celebrating its 70th anniversary, the competition emphasized the importance of capturing and sharing the truth, even in its most challenging forms.

Global jury chair Lucy Conticello noted that the contest not only honors photographers but also encapsulates significant world events that encourage meaningful conversations.

In response to previous criticisms of a Western-centric perspective, the competition introduced six regional juries, resulting in a record 42 winners this year.

The competition also highlighted significant global issues, including migration and climate change, with notable entries addressing the struggles of Chinese migrants and the impacts of drought in Brazil.

Each jury awarded seven works, including three individual images and three stories, with a notable focus on local journalists, as 30 of the awarded works were produced in their home countries.

Federico Rios was recognized in the long-term projects category for his work showcasing the challenges faced by migrants crossing the Darién Gap, one of the world's most perilous routes.

Since becoming self-taught in photography, Abu Elouf has captured the stark realities of her home region, contributing significantly to major stories in Gaza.

Controversy surrounded the inclusion of Russian photographer Mikhail Tereshchenko, whose past statements and work raised concerns about propaganda.