Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, over half a million refugees have fled into Moldova, one of Europe’s poorest nations. Due to shared language and proximity to Ukraine, 100,000 chose to remain. Despite the hardships, Moldovans have come together to provide refugees with food, lodging, and financial aid, with many offering shelters in their homes. The situation remains precarious as Russia intends to annex Transnistria, a breakaway region on Moldova’s border.
This photo essay portrays the refugees’ difficult journey and the Moldovan community’s admirable efforts to help during this crisis.
Flavio Brancaleone is an Italian photojournalist based in Sydney, Australia. He has gained recognition for his captivating images of current events and the human experience. Flavio has regularly contributed to several prominent news outlets for over a decade, including the Sydney Morning Herald and AAP Australian Associated Press.
Flavio’s work is characterised by his ability to tell a story through his photos, whether covering a significant news event or capturing the beauty of everyday life.
Kickstart our month-long festival of the arts with music, photography, and community on the shores of the dazzling Bondi Beach. Be the first to know who won the 2024 Head On Photo Awards and get a taste of the photographs redefining visual storytelling.
Enthralling. Enchanting. Extraordinary. Discover exceptional photography for free around Sydney during the festival 8 Nov–1 Dec 2024