A Bleak Future for an icon
One of the most recognisable photos in the world; the Young Afghan Girl has become a global phenomenon and a symbol of hardship since its publication in National Geographic in 1984. However, in a sad twist of fate, and one that shows the difficult, challenging life she and the society she represents still face, she now may go to jail for possession of false papers.
Having taken the iconic photo back in 1984, photographer Steve McCurry spent years trying to track her down, finally pinpointing her in 2002 in a small, Afghan village, where he re-shot her for the world to admire. However, given the violent context of Afghanistan in recent times, it appears Sharbat Gulaa (the girl) fled with her family (she is married to a baker with three children) in an attempt to provide a safe and secure environment in which they could grow up. Not possessing legal papers to be able to enter Pakistan, they became refugees and somehow managed to get across the border to settle into a new life.
Unfortunately, Pakistan has had a recent crackdown on illegal immigration and Galaa was one of the unlucky few who got caught. Now facing a jail sentence of between 7 and 14 years, as well as a hefty fine (one which she is unlikely to be able to afford), the future looks tragically bleak for the beautiful photographic muse.
A stark reminder of the grief and suffering that is rife, and recurring on a daily basis in this part of the world.
Having taken the iconic photo back in 1984, photographer Steve McCurry spent years trying to track her down, finally pinpointing her in 2002 in a small, Afghan village, where he re-shot her for the world to admire. However, given the violent context of Afghanistan in recent times, it appears Sharbat Gulaa (the girl) fled with her family (she is married to a baker with three children) in an attempt to provide a safe and secure environment in which they could grow up. Not possessing legal papers to be able to enter Pakistan, they became refugees and somehow managed to get across the border to settle into a new life.
Unfortunately, Pakistan has had a recent crackdown on illegal immigration and Galaa was one of the unlucky few who got caught. Now facing a jail sentence of between 7 and 14 years, as well as a hefty fine (one which she is unlikely to be able to afford), the future looks tragically bleak for the beautiful photographic muse.
A stark reminder of the grief and suffering that is rife, and recurring on a daily basis in this part of the world.
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