Why has a photo of women holding hairdryers been awarded Global Peace Image of the Year?
Italian photojournalist Silvia Alessi found a highly original way to tell the story of oppression in Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, under Taliban rule, women and girls are denied fundamental rights, including education, employment, and free movement. Despite the grim situation, a photo titled "The Cut," captured by Italian photographer Silvia Alessi, has been awarded the Global Peace Image of the Year 2026. This unusual image showcases Afghan women who fled to Pakistan, learning skills previously restricted by the Taliban.
The Taliban banned beauty salons in 2021, removing an avenue for women's livelihood. Now in Pakistan, these women are reclaiming their professions in classrooms equipped with mirrors, mannequins, and styling tools. Alessi's photograph, which won the award, stands out as it presents an uplifting and unusual scene. The jury member Peter-Matthias Gaede described the photo as a weapon in the struggle for self-determination, identity, and visibility.
Alessi, a former hairstylist, has worked on various photojournalism projects, including in India, Iraq, and Japan. She meticulously researches the social context before visualizing the story. In this winning image, Alessi uses a low angle, the widest setting on her 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, and a simple backdrop to emphasize the scarves and hairstyling tools, transforming the ordinary into something heroic and monumental.
This photograph was selected from 27,846 entries from 144 countries and was presented at Vienna City Hall during the 14th annual Global Peace Photo Award ceremony.
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