In the framework of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP), UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty is launching an international photo contest “Nomadic cultures of Central Asia: safeguarding pastoralism traditions and biodiversity”.

Professional and amateur photographers are invited to submit photographs taken in Central Asia that relate to one of the following themes:

• Pastoralist traditions, including objects and elements of intangible cultural heritage;
• Nomadic communities and their way of life;
• Livestock and its diversity;
• Biodiversity and rangeland landscapes.

The Contest is open to all individuals 18 years of age or older, regardless of nationality or country of residence.

Participation in the Contest is free of charge.

Submission period: 20 June – 9 August 2026 (inclusive)

Jury evaluation: 10–11 August 2026

Announcement of finalists: 12 August 2026

Following the evaluation process, the Jury will select the Contest finalists.

All finalist photographs will be exhibited in a photo exhibition to be held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in autumn 2026.

Additional links:

• More information
• Regulations and registration
• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
• More UN Competitions & Contests