World Press photo exhibition opens in Sligo highlighting ‘some of the most important events and issues shaping our world’

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

With the sun shining down on Queen Maeve Square, Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Cllr Dara Mulvey officially opened the 69th Annual World Press Photo Exhibition which has returned to Ireland for the first time since 2014, with Sligo the only town in Ireland that will host this year’s exhibition.

Cathaoirleach Mulvey spoke about the significance of the exhibition which consists of 47 images, depicting “some of the most important events and issues shaping our world today. From conflict and displacement to climate change, resiliance and hope, these photographs tell human stories that connect us across borders and cultures.”

The outdoor setting in Queen Maeve’s Square lends itself perfectly as a location to display the 42 winning photojournalism and documentary projects which were selected from 57,376 entries across 141 countries.

Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to visit the exhibition which is free to visit and to engage with friends in conversation about the topics that are raised.

Cathaoirleach Mulvey noted, “We are especially proud to present the exhibition as the flagship event of Cultúr 2026: Sharing Ireland’s Culture, the cultural programme accompanying Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.”

Another unique aspect of the exhibition is that it is accompanied by an audio self-guided tour which can be accessed via a QR code which Cathaoirleach Mulvey noted, “Will help visitors engage more deeply with the stories behind the images.”

While the images deal with images from various parts of the world, Cathaoirleach Mulvey noted there are many who may visit the exhibition and for them the images will represent their lived experience.

Members of the public enjoying the 69th Annual World Press Photo exhibition which was officially launched in Queen Maeve Square on Friday, August 14

“Many people from different parts of the world now call Sligo home including those who have experienced conflict and displacement first hand. For some, the stories captured in these images will be more than news reports; they may reflect personal experiences of resilience, courage and hope.

Cathaoirleach Mulvey expressed his gratitude to all who helped bring the exhibition to Sligo, reserving a special mention for the photographers whose work is on display saying, “Their dedication and courage in documenting the world around us provides an invaluable service to society.”

Admission to view the 69th Annual World Press Photo exhibition is free with Sligo County Council Director of Services Brian Flynn encouraging members of the public to visit and revisit the exhibition which runs in Queen Maeve’s Square until September 10.

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.