Monday, 22 December 2025, presented a world of stark contrasts, captured through the lenses of photojournalists across the globe. The day's events ranged from festive celebrations and solemn farewells to violent attacks and forceful political demonstrations.
Political Unrest and Conflict
In Kathmandu, Nepal, police detained a Gen Z protester during an anti-government rally. The movement, led by youth activist Miraj Dhungana, is challenging the interim government of Sushila Karki. Protesters are demanding an all-party roundtable or a constitutional reform assembly to rewrite the nation's constitution and introduce a directly elected prime minister.
A scene of violence unfolded in Moscow, Russia, where investigators examined the site of a car bombing that killed Lt Gen Fanil Sarvarov. The senior military figure was the head of the operational training directorate of the Russian armed forces' general staff.
Meanwhile, in East Jerusalem, Israeli forces demolished a Palestinian residential building containing 13 apartments in the Silwan neighbourhood. Authorities cited a lack of construction permits for the action.
Global Responses and Cultural Moments
Amid a raging conflict, a painter in Siem Reap, Cambodia, worked on a mural depicting displaced civilians, soldiers, and monks. This artwork emerged as a special ministerial meeting of the ASEAN bloc convened in Malaysia to discuss the Thai-Cambodian border conflict, which has killed about 60 people and displaced tens of thousands this month.
In Port-au-Prince, Haiti, a local man carried a bucket of water to assist firefighters battling a blaze at a shelter, highlighting community resilience.
A provocative nativity scene in Ochopee, Florida, USA, featured Mary and Joseph in cages. Activists stated the display represented a family separated from their baby and called for the shutdown of the nearby 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention camp, the freeing of detainees, and an end to ICE raids.
Commemoration and Seasonal Spirit
The UK music world gathered in Manchester to mourn Gary Mounfield, known as Mani, the bass guitarist for the Stone Roses and Primal Scream. The 63-year-old, who had a longstanding lung condition, died in November. Pallbearers at his funeral included former bandmates and music icons like Liam Gallagher and John Squire.
The festive season was in full swing elsewhere. In Johannesburg, South Africa, cars adorned with Christmas-themed decorations brought holiday cheer to the streets. Similarly, in South Tangerang, Indonesia, a worker cleaned a mosaic glass window at St Barnabas Catholic church in preparation for Christmas mass.
In London, choristers lit candles during a rehearsal for Christmas services at St Paul's Cathedral, while in Madrid, Spain, elaborately dressed spectators attended the famous 'El Gordo' Christmas lottery draw.
Other notable images included a deflated migrant inflatable boat in Gravelines, France, a large sinkhole in a canal in Whitchurch, UK, that led to a rescue operation, and the everyday work of municipal employees and emergency services worldwide.
