honorable mention
Matjaz Krivic slovenia
title
YEMEN – DANGEROUS PHENOMENON AND NATIONAL TRADITION
YEMEN – DANGEROUS PHENOMENON AND NATIONAL TRADITION
The phenomenon of carrying weapons is considered one of the most prominent phenomena among the Yemeni society. There are over 60 million pieces of weapons in Yemen or about three per every citizen, placing the country second after the United States in terms of personal arms spread. Although the tradition of bearing arms in Yemen is attributed to the violent past, where there was fierce fighting among the Yemeni tribes, the art of feud is still quite real and as a result, conflicts are still every day reality. But carrying guns today is more than just a means of violence and killing. It is considered as a part of the national identity and is linked to the customs and traditions of the country. Arms are also used to express joy and anger, they are a traditional way of welcoming guests and are frequently used in social events like weddings. Unfortunately a tradition like this comes with numerous casualties. Although there were some attempts by the government to regulate the issue, the weak economy, extreme poverty and unemployment are among the crucial reasons behind the problem that may lead to further casualties.
Recently he has joined photo agency Getty Images.
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entry description
YEMEN – DANGEROUS PHENOMENON AND NATIONAL TRADITION
The phenomenon of carrying weapons is considered one of the most prominent phenomena among the Yemeni society. There are over 60 million pieces of weapons in Yemen or about three per every citizen, placing the country second after the United States in terms of personal arms spread. Although the tradition of bearing arms in Yemen is attributed to the violent past, where there was fierce fighting among the Yemeni tribes, the art of feud is still quite real and as a result, conflicts are still every day reality. But carrying guns today is more than just a means of violence and killing. It is considered as a part of the national identity and is linked to the customs and traditions of the country. Arms are also used to express joy and anger, they are a traditional way of welcoming guests and are frequently used in social events like weddings. Unfortunately a tradition like this comes with numerous casualties. Although there were some attempts by the government to regulate the issue, the weak economy, extreme poverty and unemployment are among the crucial reasons behind the problem that may lead to further casualties.
about the photographer
MATJAŽ KRIVIC is a globe-trotting photographer specializing in capturing the personality and grandeur of indigenous people and places. For 15 years he has covered the face of the earth in his intense, personal and aesthetically moving style that has won him several prestigious awards. He has made the road his home and most of the time you can find him traveling with his camera somewhere between Sahara and Himalaya.Recently he has joined photo agency Getty Images.
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