World Press Photo Exhibition Debuts in Andorra at Hotel Pol

The World Press Photo exhibition, one of the world's most prestigious showcases of photojournalism, will open for the first time in Andorra at the Hotel Pol in Sant Julià de Lòria from June 10 to 30.

Organized by Reunió de Papaia with support from Reig Fundació, the Sant Julià de Lòria commune, the Culture Ministry, the Association of Communication Professionals of Andorra (APCA), and Amics del Disseny d’Andorra, the display forms part of a global tour visiting around 60 cities. Andorra's stop precedes Barcelona's scheduled appearance later in the year.

This year's edition drew more than 57,000 entries from 3,700 photographers across 150 countries. The selection features around 147 images across 60 panels, capturing key events of 2025, including wars, migration, climate crisis, human rights issues, social conflicts, and threats to press freedom. Among the highlights is the 2025 World Press Photo of the Year for Europe, by Ukrainian photographer Evgeniy Maloletka, depicting 65-year-old Valeria Syniuk in the aftermath of a Russian missile strike on her Kyiv apartment building on April 24.

Pere Moles, the exhibition commissioner from Reunió de Papaia, described the effort to bring the show to Andorra as challenging after years of attempts. He emphasized its role in illuminating global realities through powerful imagery that becomes iconic, rather than mere aesthetics. "It helps us understand the world we live in," Moles said, noting the images' intensity.

A dedicated memorial space, created by Amics del Disseny d’Andorra, honors photojournalists killed on the job. Sources cited 129 such deaths in 2025 while covering conflicts.

Cònsol Menor Sofia Cortesao of Sant Julià de Lòria called the event an opportunity to place the parish on the international cultural map, viewing culture as a tool for reflection and global engagement. APCA president Marc Segalás highlighted years of pursuit for this milestone, praising its ability to revive awareness of fading news stories. Culture Minister Mònica Bonell commended the persuasive collaboration.

Admission costs €3-5, with free entry for pre-booked school and group visits. Organizers prioritized prestige over profit and may direct proceeds to partners. Discussions also surfaced ideas for future Andorran photojournalism exhibits focusing on local historic events.