The article discusses the tourism industry in Egypt, which despite reaching a record high of 14.9 million visitors last year, is currently facing challenges due to the economic crisis and the impact of the Israel-Hamas war. The story is covered through the lens of photojournalist Hamada Elrasam, who travels from Luxor to Aswan and other parts of Upper Egypt to capture the situation on the ground. The narrative is provided by Elle Kurancid, who adds context to the images and the current state of Egypt's tourism sector.

The article discusses the celebration of Orthodox Christmas by Egypt's Copts amidst the country's severe economic crisis. It also touches upon the ongoing humanitarian disaster in the Gaza Strip and its effects on the region. The story is conveyed through photographs taken by Cairo photojournalist Hamada Elrasam, with photo captions provided by Elle Kurancid. The narrative highlights the resilience of people in the face of adversity and the cross-border impact of the crisis in Gaza on neighboring countries like Egypt.

The article discusses the presidential elections in Egypt, which began on a Sunday and are set to continue over a three-day period. The current President, Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, is expected to secure a third term amidst various challenges facing the country. Issues such as long breadlines and crises, including the situation in neighboring Gaza, are influencing the thoughts and concerns of Egyptian voters. The report is being covered by Cairo-based photojournalist Hamada Elrasam, who started reporting from the North Sinai city of Arish, with the collaboration of Elle Kurancid.

The article discusses the political climate in Egypt, focusing on the army chief Sissi, who has previously won elections in 2014 and 2018 with 97% of the vote. Sissi's campaign is highlighted by his theme of sacrifice, as he suggests that the nation's progress and prosperity might come at the cost of going hungry and thirsty, to which he boldly states that the population should be willing to endure such hardships. The article references a statement made in Arish, Egypt, on December 10, 2023, and includes a photo by Hamada Elrasam from VOA.

The article discusses the situation at Egypt's Rafah border crossing with the Gaza Strip, highlighting the mix of hope and despair experienced by those affected by the recent conflict. The focus is on the events following the October 7 attack by Hamas on southern Israel, which led to a 'humanitarian pause' at the border. Photojournalist Hamada Elrasam, working for VOA, documented the Egyptian side of the border on November 29, capturing the last day of the pause in the crisis-ridden Gaza Strip. The article is a collaborative piece with contributions from Elle Kurancid.

The article highlights the issue of child labor in Egypt, where 1.8 million children are engaged in work, some in hazardous jobs that violate international conventions. The piece is timed with World Children's Day on November 20 and includes a photo essay by Hamada Elrasam, who documented the lives of impoverished Egyptian families. These families express that they are forced by their circumstances to send their children to work. The article includes captions by Elle Kurancid, which provide context to the images and the stories of the children and their families.

The article discusses the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the poor and vulnerable populations, particularly in Egypt. It highlights the plight of individuals living below the poverty line, such as Fayza Ahmed Ibrahim, a widow and mother of four, who faces the dual threat of the coronavirus and poverty. The article references warnings from international organizations like Oxfam, UNICEF, and Save the Children about the dire consequences of the pandemic on global hunger and poverty. Egyptian photojournalist Hamada Elrasam's work is featured, aiming to bring attention to the struggles of Egypt's 'unknowns'—the poor and vulnerable who were marginalized before the pandemic and continue to be so. The article also touches on the broader economic impact, including the suspension of Egypt's vital tourism industry, and the stigma associated with being corona-positive in Egypt, which may lead to underreporting of cases and deaths.

The article focuses on the cultural tradition of El-Mermah, a celebratory fencing competition that takes place in the rural south of Egypt. This event is held in honor of the birthdays of holy Islamic figures and other special occasions. Photojournalist Hamada Elrasam captured the essence of this tradition in Al-Biirat, a village in Luxor, as the community prepared to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Mohamed. The article includes photographs taken by Elrasam and is accompanied by words from Elle Kurancid, providing a glimpse into this centuries-old art form and its significance in the local culture.

The article draws parallels between the San Andreas Fault in California and the East Anatolian Fault in Türkiye, hinting at the potential for a future megaquake on the West Coast. It then focuses on the aftermath of the recent earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria, emphasizing the plight of Syrian refugees who have been doubly hit by the disaster and ongoing conflict. The World Health Organization has labeled the quakes as the worst natural disaster in its European Region in a century. The article shares personal stories of Syrian refugees in Türkiye, detailing their struggles with loss, displacement, and the ongoing food insecurity crisis in the region. The narrative is built around the experiences of individuals and families who have faced repeated hardships and are trying to rebuild their lives amidst the chaos.

The article reports on the annual pilgrimage of Coptic Christian worshippers in the mountains near Asyut, Egypt, despite challenges such as record temperatures and inflation. The pilgrimage is a commemoration of what is believed to be a period when the Virgin Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus spent time in the area. The event is captured through the lens of photojournalist Hamada Elrasam, with image captions provided by Elle Kurancid. The article is likely a visual piece with accompanying text that provides context to the images and the significance of the pilgrimage.

The article discusses an Egyptian tradition followed by a 20-year-old named Sharbat, who fills a bowl with water for wild birds during the summer months in Cairo. This act is driven by the belief that providing water to birds will bring good luck to her home. The photograph capturing this moment was taken by Hamada Elrasam for VOA (Voice of America).

The article discusses the impact of economic conditions on the livestock market during Eid celebrations. A livestock seller named Said reports a decrease in sales compared to previous years. He notes that he has only sold 60 out of 100 sheep he brought to the market for Eid. Said observes that his regular customers are buying fewer sheep, with some purchasing just one instead of the usual two or three, and others not showing up at all. The photograph by Hamada Elrasam for VOA (Voice of America) suggests that the article may include visual documentation of the market situation.

The article discusses the rise of the far-right party Golden Dawn in Greece, drawing parallels with far-right movements in the United States and across Europe. It details the history of Golden Dawn, its Nazi-inspired ideology, and the criminal charges against its members, including involvement in hate crimes and the murder of anti-fascist rapper Pavlos Fyssas. The trial of Golden Dawn members is likened to the Nuremberg trials post-World War II. The article also touches on the broader context of economic anxiety, xenophobia, and nationalism contributing to the rise of far-right politics. It mentions the support of far-right ideologies by individuals like Matthew Heimbach in the U.S. and the influence of Donald Trump's presidency on such groups. The article includes testimonies from the trial and comments from human rights defenders and journalists, emphasizing the threat posed by these movements and the importance of citizen-led resistance.

The article discusses the political situation in Egypt, focusing on the acquittal of former president Hosni Mubarak and the current presidency of Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. It highlights the continuity of authoritarian rule, corruption, and human rights abuses, drawing parallels between the regimes of Mubarak and Sisi. The piece also touches on the relationship between President Donald Trump and Sisi, noting Trump's support for Sisi's counterterrorism efforts and the military aid the US provides to Egypt. The article mentions Trump's praise for Sisi during a White House meeting and the military-industrial complex's influence on the Trump administration. Additionally, it references a photo essay by photojournalist Hamada Elrasam, which aims to capture the unsettling atmosphere in Egypt where the military and business thrive amidst widespread injustice and repression.

The article discusses the dismantling of 'the Jungle,' a refugee camp in Calais, France, which became a symbol of Europe's struggle with the migration crisis. Housing thousands, many qualified for asylum but were stuck, unable to settle in France or reach Britain. The French government relocated residents for humanitarian reasons, but the future of the displaced, especially children, remains uncertain. The UK has accepted fewer than 300 children, with France urging for more. The piece, adapted from Le Monde diplomatique, shares insights from Sami, a refugee, highlighting the harsh realities of life in the camp and the broader implications of Europe's stringent immigration policies. It critiques the construction of barriers like the £1.9 million wall and increased security measures, emphasizing the disconnect between human rights rhetoric and actions that prioritize border security over humanitarian needs. The article also touches on the broader context of the refugee crisis, linking it to past colonialism, wars, and economic policies.

Egypt is set to host the United Nations climate summit in November, but there are concerns about the country's commitment to sustainability. Critics point out that the construction practices, especially for the new capital city near Cairo, are resulting in significant environmental damage, including the destruction of trees and green spaces. This contradiction raises questions about the effectiveness of Egypt's environmental policies as it prepares for an international event focused on climate issues.

The article features a statement from a grocer named Islam, who is based in Cairo and has a family history in the grocery business. Islam, a father of three, comments on the current market demand for vegetables, noting that tomatoes and potatoes are in higher demand than other vegetables. He attributes this to their affordability, which makes them popular choices for charity iftars and for households that are struggling financially. The statement was made on March 28, 2023, and is accompanied by a photograph taken by Hamada Elrasam for VOA.

The article discusses a unique blend of documentary and Theatre of the Absurd-style performances that focuses on the plight of rhinoceroses. It follows the story of an Irishman who, after snorting powdered rhino horn, undergoes a surreal transformation into a rhino-headed man. This transformation symbolizes the merging of the hunter and the hunted, a poignant commentary on the real-world hunting and poaching of rhinos. The narrative weaves between real-life documentary footage and fantastical performances, aiming to shed light on the species' struggle for survival both in the wild and even after death.

The article focuses on the lives of children in Jharia, India, who dance to express hope but also scavenge coal from mines for survival. It highlights the poverty in Jharkhand, where many rely on the coal industry for their livelihood. The risks of living near the mines, such as poor air quality and land subsidence, are discussed. Bharat Coking Coal Limited, a subsidiary of Coal India, operates the mines but did not comment on the situation. The article also covers the efforts of Pinaki Roy, who founded the Coalfield Children Classes to provide education and arts lessons to the young coal scavengers. The story of Savitri, a girl aiming to become a nurse, is shared to illustrate the personal struggles and aspirations of these children amidst the harsh realities of coalfield life.

In Jharia, India, children like Anjali scavenge coal from mines for survival despite the risks and illegality. The region is plagued by poverty, poor air quality, and land subsidence due to extensive mining by Bharat Coking Coal Limited. Educator Pinaki Roy founded Coalfield Children Classes to provide free education and arts lessons to young coal collectors, aiming to improve their socioeconomic status. The initiative, supported by a Paris-based NGO, helps with school fees and encourages regular attendance at government schools. The community commemorates 'Better Lifestyle Day' in memory of Chanda, a student who died while scavenging. Savitri, a beneficiary of the program, aspires to become a nurse to provide a better future for her family.

In Jharia, eastern India, children who scavenge coal for survival also find hope through dance. Despite the risks of mining, including poor air quality and land subsidence, poverty drives many, including 16-year-old Anjali, to collect coal illegally. Pinaki Roy, an educator from Jharia, founded Coalfield Children Classes to offer free education in English, computers, and the arts to young coal collectors. The initiative, supported by a Paris-based NGO, helps students with school fees and encourages them to pursue better socioeconomic futures. The community commemorates

In Jharia, India, children like Anjali scavenge coal from mines for survival despite the risks and illegality. The region is plagued by poverty, poor air quality, and land issues due to extensive mining. Pinaki Roy, a local educator, founded Coalfield Children Classes to provide free education and arts lessons to young coal collectors, aiming to improve their socioeconomic status. The initiative, supported by a Paris-based NGO, helps with school fees and encourages regular school attendance. The story highlights the challenges faced by these children and the efforts to provide them with a better future.

In Jharia, India, children, including 16-year-old Anjali, scavenge coal from mines for survival despite the risks and illegality. The region is plagued by poverty, poor air quality, and land subsidence due to extensive mining by Bharat Coking Coal Limited. Educator Pinaki Roy founded Coalfield Children Classes to provide free education and arts lessons to young coal scavengers, aiming to improve their socioeconomic status. The initiative, supported by a Paris-based NGO, helps with school fees and encourages regular school attendance. Roy commemorates a former student, Chanda, who died while scavenging, with an annual

In Jharia, India, children dance near a coal mine before scavenging coal for survival. Anjali, a 16-year-old local, is among those who risk their health for a few dollars worth of coal. The state-owned Bharat Coking Coal Limited operates the mines, which pose significant risks due to poor air quality and land subsidence. Pinaki Roy, an educator, founded Coalfield Children Classes to provide free after-school lessons to young coal collectors. The initiative also helps with school fees in partnership with a Paris-based NGO. Roy aims to shift the children's focus from coal picking to improving their socioeconomic status through education. Savitri, a student of Roy's classes, is now studying to become a nurse, hoping to provide a better future for her family.

In Jharia, India, children like 16-year-old Anjali scavenge coal from mines to survive, despite the risks and illegality. The region is plagued by poverty, poor air quality, and land subsidence due to extensive mining. Pinaki Roy, an educator from Jharia, founded Coalfield Children Classes to provide free after-school lessons and support to young coal collectors. The initiative helps students with school fees and encourages them to pursue education over coal scavenging. Savitri, a student of Roy's classes, is working towards becoming a nurse. The community also commemorates 'Better Lifestyle Day' in memory of Chanda, a student who died while scavenging coal.

In Jharia, India, children like Anjali scavenge coal from mines for survival despite the risks and illegality. The region is plagued by poverty, poor air quality, and land subsidence due to extensive mining. Pinaki Roy, an educator, founded Coalfield Children Classes to provide free education and change the socioeconomic situation of these children. The initiative, supported by a Paris-based NGO, helps with school fees and encourages regular attendance at government schools. The community commemorates 'Better Lifestyle Day' in memory of Chanda, a student who died while scavenging coal. Savitri, another student, aspires to become a nurse to provide for her family better.

In Jharia, India, children like Anjali scavenge coal from mines for survival despite the risks and illegality. The region is plagued by poverty, poor air quality, and land subsidence due to extensive mining. Bharat Coking Coal Limited, a subsidiary of state-owned Coal India, operates the mines but did not comment on the situation. Pinaki Roy, an educator from Jharia, founded Coalfield Children Classes to provide free education and support to young coal scavengers. The initiative helps students like Savitri, who aspires to be a nurse, to pursue education and improve their socioeconomic status. The community also commemorates 'Better Lifestyle Day' in memory of Chanda, a student who died in a mining accident.

In Jharia, eastern India, children like 16-year-old Anjali scavenge coal from mines for survival despite the risks and illegality. The region is plagued by poverty, poor air quality, and land subsidence due to extensive mining. Bharat Coking Coal Limited operates the mines but did not comment on the situation. Pinaki Roy, an educator from Jharia, founded Coalfield Children Classes to provide free after-school lessons and support to young coal scavengers. The initiative helps change their socioeconomic situations and has assisted many in attending school. The community commemorates 'Better Lifestyle Day' in memory of Chanda, a student who died scavenging coal. Savitri, another student, is now studying to become a nurse with the help of the classes and donations.

The article discusses the economic challenges faced by Egypt, including a cost-of-living crisis and a currency crisis, which have been worsened by the global repercussions of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The conflict has caused significant disruptions in the supply of food and energy worldwide, impacting the purchasing power of citizens in Cairo. The article highlights the struggles of the local population as they attempt to navigate these financial difficulties.

The article discusses a Christmas event founded by Hajj Zarief in Al-Sherif, Egypt, which began on January 2, 1974. The inception of the event was inspired by a dream his uncle had, in which he envisioned people from around the world gathering at Zarief's home and Jesus providing them with water. The photograph accompanying the article was taken by Hamada Elrasam for VOA (Voice of America).

The article discusses the gathering of Muslims in the village of Al-Sherif, Egypt, in preparation for Mawlid al-Nabi, which celebrates the birth of the Prophet Mohammed. This event is taking place against the backdrop of a debt crisis and rising cost of living. The village, located approximately 120 kilometers south of Cairo, is preparing for the celebration despite these economic challenges. The photo by Hamada Elrasam for VOA captures the essence of the preparations on October 4, 2022.

The article discusses the impact of climate change on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, highlighting a report from the International Monetary Fund. It notes that over the past thirty years, temperatures in the MENA region have risen at twice the global average rate, with an increase of 0.7 degrees Celsius. This rise in temperature is particularly detrimental to countries in the region that already experience high heat levels. The focus is on the environmental challenges faced by these countries due to the accelerated pace of climate change.

The article discusses the ongoing war in Syria, which has entered its twelfth year, and draws parallels with the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Damascus-born, Idlib-based photographer Fadi Al-Shami shares his perspective on how the Russian military has used Syrian bodies as testing grounds for weapons and is now targeting Ukrainian civilians. The article highlights the humanitarian crises in both regions, with millions displaced and civilian infrastructures targeted, leading to numerous civilian casualties, including children. Human Rights Watch has accused the Russia-Syria military alliance of war crimes and possibly crimes against humanity. Through Al-Shami's images, the article portrays the human cost of war and the struggle between life and death, emphasizing the impact on noncombatants and the importance of recognizing the value of life to prevent civilians from becoming military targets.

The article features Marina, a stay-at-home mother living in east Cairo, who aspires to open her own beauty salon. Despite her dreams, she faces challenges in finding both the time and financial resources to make her dream a reality. The article was published on June 26, 2022, and highlights the personal aspirations and lifestyle of a mother in Cairo, reflecting on the broader issues of work-life balance and entrepreneurship among women in the region.

The Egyptian government is taking measures to strengthen its strategic wheat reserves, which currently stand at a four-month supply. To achieve this, the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade has mandated that local farmers must sell a portion of their wheat production to the state. This policy is aimed at ensuring the country has an adequate supply of wheat, which is a staple food in Egypt and critical for national food security.

The article discusses the change in behavior of people in Cairo during the breaking of the fast in Ramadan, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Reda, an individual who serves free orange juice to Muslims during iftar, has observed a shift in the public's attitude towards health precautions over the past two years. Initially, people were hesitant to accept juice from servers not wearing masks or gloves. However, Reda notes that currently, no one comments on the lack of masks or gloves, indicating a relaxation in concern over the transmission of the virus or an adaptation to the new normal.

The article discusses the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on global food security, highlighting the situation in Egypt where the majority of the population relies on state-subsidized bread. The United Nations has described Ukraine as the 'breadbasket' for the developing world, emphasizing the severity of the situation as the conflict disrupts food supplies. The piece also touches on the religious and cultural aspects of the crisis, with the approach of Ramadan, a holy month for Muslims. The Cairo-based photojournalist Hamada Elrasam provides visual documentation of the Egyptian people's concerns and their reliance on bread as a staple food during this challenging time.

The article discusses the concerns of Hassan Elfarran, a bakery owner in Cairo, Egypt, who produces 10,000 loaves of subsidized bread daily. Elfarran is worried about the potential increase in bread prices and its impact on Egypt's poor, which could lead to unbearable living expenses for the population. The article highlights the dependency of 70 million of Egypt's impoverished citizens on subsidized bread, indicating the potential for widespread economic distress if prices were to rise.

The article discusses the archaeological excavation methods used at a site in Giza, Egypt. The excavators employ traditional techniques, utilizing ladders and hand-woven buckets to reach burial chambers that are situated 3 to 8 meters underground. This approach is chosen to prevent any damage to the historical site. The photo by Hamada Elrasam, dated March 19, 2022, suggests that the article may include visual documentation of the excavation process.

The article discusses the celebration of Christmas in Egypt, which is officially sanctioned by Islamic clerics for people of all faiths. This inclusivity comes despite some conservative Muslim objections. The report highlights the conclusion of the holiday season with Coptic Christmas on January 7, which is celebrated by the majority of Egyptian Christians. The piece is presented as a photo essay by Hamada Elrasam with accompanying text by Elle Kurancid for VOA (Voice of America).

The article discusses the Egyptian government's efforts to revive the tourism industry, which suffered significant financial losses in 2020 due to the pandemic. In 2021, the government organized high-profile events to attract international visitors. However, critics argue that these events have not effectively translated into job creation or increased revenue for local workers in the tourism sector. The story is conveyed through a photo essay by Hamada Elrasam, with captions by Elle Kurancid, for VOA.

The article discusses the impact of the reopening of the Avenue of the Sphinxes in Luxor, Egypt, on local tourism. It notes that the number of tourists visiting the Luxor Temple doubled the day after the reopening event on November 26, 2021. This suggests a positive response from tourists and indicates a potential boost to the local economy, which is likely reliant on the tourism industry. The reopening of the Avenue of the Sphinxes appears to be a significant cultural event that has drawn attention and increased visitor numbers to the historic site.

The article, written by Peter Blodau, provides a harrowing account of the experiences of a Syrian man named Joan, who witnessed the brutality of both the Hafez and Bashar al-Assad regimes. It details the historical context of the Hama massacre and draws parallels with the current Syrian Civil War. Joan describes the regime's tactics of repression, including the use of barrel bombs and torture, and the chilling slogan 'Assad or we burn the country'. The article also touches on Joan's personal decision to leave Syria to avoid military conscription and the potential for death or torture. It highlights the broader refugee crisis, with many Syrians attempting dangerous crossings to seek asylum in Europe. The piece concludes with Joan's reflections on the hopes and challenges faced by Syrian refugees integrating into new societies.

The article discusses the severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen, highlighting the plight of malnourished children and the struggles of mothers in the war-torn country. It references a report from PBS NewsHour showing the dire situation. Yemeni photographer Amira Al-Sharif and writer Elham Hassan, both based in Yemen, provide personal insights and a collection of photographs titled 'Mothers Being Mothers' to illustrate the impact of the war on families. The article includes an open letter that confronts the hypocrisy of Western powers who provide aid to Yemen while simultaneously selling weapons to the Saudi-led coalition. The letter questions the logic of expecting Yemeni women to stop having children amidst the war and criticizes international powers for their role in perpetuating the conflict and the suffering of Yemeni families.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Farhan, a date cultivator and trader in Cairo, who has over 45 years of experience in the industry. Farhan notes that this year, the quality of dates has deteriorated; they are not as sweet and spoil more rapidly. The statement was made on September 9, 2021, and indicates a potential issue in the date cultivation sector in Cairo, which could have implications for local farmers and traders like Farhan.

Fayza Ahmed Ibrahim, a 63-year-old widow and mother of four, expresses her concern for survival as she queues outside a food bank in east Cairo. Living in an overcrowded informal settlement, she is unemployed and suffers from health issues, including diabetes-related retinal fibrosis. Her statement highlights the vulnerability and desperation of those living in poverty, particularly during a pandemic, and raises questions about the adequacy of support for the most disadvantaged in society.

The article discusses the ongoing war in Yemen, highlighting the role of Saudi Arabia and its coalition in the humanitarian crisis. It criticizes the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen as a form of political gaslighting, given the kingdom's involvement in airstrikes that have caused civilian casualties. The piece also addresses the paradox of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates being top donors to the UN's response plan for Yemen while simultaneously leading a military campaign that has resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life. The article further examines the international community's response, including arms sales from the US and UK to Saudi Arabia, despite evidence of these weapons being used in attacks on civilians. The journalist reflects on the personal stories of Yemenis affected by the war and the lack of optimism for a peaceful resolution due to the vested interests of world powers.

The film 'Above the Law' explores the connection between the migratory patterns of birds and the journeys of people across the same natural landscapes. Set in diverse locations such as a pigeon coop in Cairo, bird watching towers in Greece, and the border of Northern Ireland, the film contrasts natural laws with human-imposed geopolitical boundaries. It features unique footage from cameras mounted on eagles, offering a bird’s-eye perspective that blurs the line between surveillance and natural observation. The film, with a 14-minute runtime, was released at the Cork International Film Festival in November 2019 and is a product of collaboration between Invisible Hand ltd, Screen Ireland, and the National Geographic Society.