World Press Photo 2026 Winner Revealed: Carol Guzy’s ‘Separated by ICE’ Captures Immigration Crisis

The World Press Photo of the Year 2026 has been awarded to photojournalist Carol Guzy for her haunting image “Separated by ICE.” The photograph, unveiled on June 11, 2025, captures children clinging to their father following an immigration hearing, highlighting the human toll of U.S. immigration policies.

Guzy’s winning entry was selected from a pool of 67,000 submissions from 127 countries, underscoring the global significance of her work. The image was chosen for its emotional depth and adherence to the competition’s strict ethical standards, which prohibit the use of generative AI in the final composition.

World Press Photo’s Stance on AI in Photojournalism

The announcement comes at a time when the definition of “real” photography is increasingly debated, particularly with the rise of generative AI tools. World Press Photo, a prestigious non-profit organization, maintains a firm stance: “Photojournalism must reflect reality.”

The competition’s rules explicitly state that AI-generated elements are prohibited in entries. This policy ensures that all submitted photographs are captured through traditional photojournalistic methods, preserving the integrity of the craft. The organization’s guidelines emphasize transparency and authenticity, requiring photographers to disclose any post-processing techniques used.

Finalists and Honorable Mentions

The 2026 World Press Photo Contest featured three finalists in the Photo of the Year category:

• “The Last of the Forest Guardians” by Carmen Yañez – A striking image documenting the final days of indigenous forest guardians in the Amazon.
• “The Weight of Water” by Sudipta Das – A powerful depiction of a family in Bangladesh struggling to access clean water.
• “Fractured” by Mary F. Calvert – An intimate portrayal of veterans suffering from PTSD, highlighting the invisible wounds of war.

In addition to the Photo of the Year, the contest recognized winners in nine other categories, including Long-Term Projects, Open Format, and Sports. A full list of winners and their entries is available on the World Press Photo website.

Why Guzy’s Winning Image Stands Out

Guzy’s photograph is a visceral representation of the emotional and physical separation caused by immigration enforcement. Taken in June 2024 at an immigration court in Harlingen, Texas, the image captures a moment of raw vulnerability as a father and his children are forcibly separated following a hearing.

The photograph has already sparked widespread discussion about U.S. immigration policies and the role of photojournalism in exposing systemic injustices. World Press Photo’s jury praised the image for its “unflinching honesty and profound humanity.”

“This image is a testament to the power of photojournalism in bearing witness to human suffering and resilience.” — World Press Photo Jury Statement

Looking Ahead: The Future of Photojournalism

As AI continues to reshape the creative landscape, World Press Photo’s commitment to traditional photojournalism serves as a reminder of the medium’s unique ability to document reality. The 2026 contest’s emphasis on authenticity reflects a broader industry trend, with organizations like National Geographic and The New York Times also tightening their policies on AI-generated content.

The winning photographs, including Guzy’s “Separated by ICE,” will be showcased in an exhibition touring 45 cities worldwide starting in September 2025. The exhibition will also be available as a digital showcase, ensuring global accessibility.