At the United Nations Headquarters in New York, a renowned British photographer, writer, chef, and NGO founder was approached by staff after a press conference. They expressed gratitude for his honesty and for highlighting overlooked stories.
Giles Duley, dedicated to documenting war’s impact, was seriously injured in Afghanistan. He continues to strive to heal his and others’ wounds.
“The process of truly supporting people with disabilities in conflict and peacebuilding hasn’t begun,” he told UN News. “Every day, I witness people in dire situations, unable to access basic necessities or escape bombardments.”
As a Global Advocate, he aims to honor his responsibility to those whose stories he’s documented, lamenting missed opportunities to influence leaders.
Duley didn’t expect complete change during his tenure but hoped for attentive listening. He often found himself asked to inspire others instead of discussing his mission.
Beginning as a music photographer, Duley’s work shifted to documenting conflict. In 2011, he was severely injured in Afghanistan, losing limbs but returning to work by 2012.
“I shouldn’t be here to inspire,” he said. “I want to be inspired by those making efforts to impact the lives of people with disabilities.”
He criticized the symbolic inclusion of disabled people, questioning the lack of policy involvement following “performative” displays of inspiration.
This week, Duley helped launch “Forward, NOT Fragmented,” a UN exhibition displaying his photographs of survivors and communities affected by explosive ordnance.
One photo features Nawali, a teacher from near the Sudan-Chad border, who crawled to safety after her village was attacked. Duley met her in a camp, where she struggled due to the lack of a wheelchair, highlighting systemic neglect.
In Ukraine, Duley photographed Julia, a woman with cerebral palsy left helpless when her parents were detained. Upon return, Julia’s mother found her neglected and ill, showcasing the grim reality for disabled people in conflict.
Duley recounted Amro’s story in Gaza, a boy shot by a sniper who withdrew from public life due to fear of judgment. Duley’s efforts to connect with him highlight the impact of small gestures.
After recent conflicts, Duley lost contact with Amro’s family, leaving their fate unknown.
He urged a shift in perception, emphasizing people’s stories over their disabilities. Duley wants the media to focus on his work, not his past injuries.
Disability is not monolithic, Duley noted, stressing the unique challenges faced by women and those with invisible disabilities. Addressing these needs is crucial for equal rights.
Duley envisions a world where everyone has the opportunities he received, seeing his work as a step toward meaningful change for others.
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