This is my first post on this site and what better place to post from than Ulaan Baatar..! I’m here on assignment to shoot a story for a Human Rights exhibition to be held in Jersey this June. More information about that in February when the schedule has been finalised but already lined up are some of the best photojournalists working today coming over to give presentations about Iraq & Afghanistan and some incredible documentary films..watch this space..!! I’ll be posting-time permitting-each day from here then a full story when I’ve returned..any comments appreciated
Shuree (6) cooling his soup served to him at the Mongolian Outreach Mission centre in Ulaan Baatar. Everyday over 150 woman and children from the poorest Gher area of the city stop for their only proper meal of the day.
Coal and wood burning fires for heating and cooking in the Gher district has made Ulaan Baatar one of the most polluted capital cities in the world.
With temperatures reaching below -30c at this time of year street children sleep in hot water pipe manholes offering some refuge from the freezing nights. The government are trying to stop this by sealing up the entrances but many children break the locks to gain access.
Alcohol abuse is a major problem in Mongolia with over 14% of men officially alcoholics. If not found by Police or Ngo's they could die within hours and many have lost fingers and toes to frostbite due to the extreme temperatures.