This week, The Guardian has curated a striking visual narrative of global events through its latest photographic selection. The collection, published on Thursday, 19 December 2025, presents twenty images that capture moments of conflict, natural wonder, cultural celebration, and human resilience from across the planet.
From Celestial Spectacles to Earthly Struggles
The series opens with a breathtaking celestial event. A photograph by Angelos Tzortzinis shows the partial lunar eclipse as seen from the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, Greece. This ancient backdrop provides a timeless setting for the astronomical phenomenon.
In stark contrast, the collection moves to the streets of New York City. Here, photographer Stephanie Keith documents a powerful act of protest. A demonstrator is seen holding a sign that reads "Let Gaza Live" during a rally calling for a ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, highlighting ongoing international tensions.
Diverse Stories from Four Continents
The visual journey spans multiple continents and themes. In Russia, the focus turns to the legal system where supporters of the imprisoned opposition leader Alexei Navalny gathered outside a court. Meanwhile, in India, the vibrant and colourful festival of Durga Puja is showcased, illustrating the country's rich cultural tapestry.
The collection does not shy away from environmental and social issues. One image depicts the severe air pollution in Lahore, Pakistan, a recurring public health crisis. Another powerful shot from Kenya shows the devastating aftermath of flash floods in Nairobi, a stark reminder of climate change's impact.
Sport, Culture, and the Human Spirit
Lighter moments are also captured. The sporting world is represented by a dynamic image of England's rugby league team in training, preparing for their upcoming test match against Australia. From France, a whimsical photo shows a man carrying an oversized bottle of wine, adding a touch of humour to the weekly roundup.
The human element remains central throughout. A poignant photograph from Ukraine shows a woman laying flowers at a memorial site, a silent tribute to lives lost. Another, from Bangladesh, captures the intense focus of a jewellery artisan at work, representing the enduring nature of craft and livelihood.
This weekly photographic series by The Guardian serves as a powerful testament to the role of photojournalism. It connects audiences with global narratives that might otherwise remain distant, translating complex news stories into immediate, visceral, and unforgettable images. The selection for the week of 19 December 2025 successfully encapsulates a world of beauty, struggle, and everyday life, proving that a single frame can often speak more powerfully than a thousand words.
