Bazarkurdistan: Ebrahim Alipoor, a photographer from Baneh/Kurdistan, won the World Press Photo award in 2025 with his long-term project “Bullets Have No Borders.” The selected photo series by Iranian photographer Ebrahim Alipoor was chosen from 59,000 submissions by 3,778 participants and photographers from 141 countries.
In Kurdish regions of Western Iran, the Kurdish term Koolbary (being a porter) is coined to describe the act of transportation of goods across the border on shoulders in exchange for a small amount of money. Mostly ranging from 13 to 65 years old, Koolbars do border crossing, with heavy loads, taking an average of 8 to 12 hours — routes are located in life-endangering locations including winding mountain trails, valleys, steep hills, narrow passages through high cliffs, among others. The risk of being shot by border patrols adds to the hazards Koolbars have to face in pursuit of a living.
Surviving wounded Koolbars, their families, as well as families of dead Koolbars face numerous challenges and hardships. With Koolbary not being recognized as a “profession” in Iran as well as being considered illegal by the government, affected Koolbars as well as their families are not supported in any way. With the continuation of such deaths as well as Koolbars being maimed, it is likely that in the future residents of the region will face serious social and political implications.
Kolbars (border couriers) carry goods, such as household appliances, mobile phones, and clothes, on their backs through treacherous terrain from Iraq and Turkey into Iranian Kurdistan. The Iranian government bans import of many such goods to protect local production and save foreign currency in the face of Western sanctions. Decades-long marginalization of Kurds means widespread unemployment in the region, driving many to kolbari. In addition, many kolbars see the activity as legitimate, as they feel ties with fellow Kurds across nation-state borders they do not acknowledge. However, kolbars risk being shot by security forces and border patrols.
Ebrahim Alipoor is a photographer from Kurdistan, Iran.
Alipoor’s work focuses on storytelling through photography, exploring social and political issues under challenging circumstances. He views photography as a powerful medium to engage audiences, particularly in regions like Iran, where governmental restrictions and censorship pose significant challenges. Despite these limitations, he seeks to connect with people and inspire change through his work.
Website:
EbrahimAlipoor