A World in Pictures: Daily Glimpses from Across the Globe
In a diverse collection of images from Thursday, February 19, 2026, photographers documented moments of ceremony, conflict, remembrance, and celebration around the world. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the snowy slopes of the Italian Alps, these photographs offer a poignant snapshot of human experience and current events.
Ceremonies and Commemorations
Nepali security personnel participated in a formal ceremony at the army pavilion in Tundikhel, Kathmandu, marking the nation's 76th Democracy Day. The event, captured by photographer Sanjit Pariyar, showcased traditional bagpipers in military regalia, highlighting the country's rich cultural heritage and political milestones.
In Kyiv, Ukraine, a woman attended a memorial service at St Michael’s Cathedral, honoring the more than 100 protesters killed during the 2014 Maidan revolution. This somber moment, photographed by Ukrinform, served as a reminder of ongoing struggles for democracy and freedom in the region.
Cultural and Religious Observances
In Srinagar, within Indian-controlled Kashmir, Muslim women were photographed reading the Qur’an at the city's grand mosque on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan. The image by Mukhtar Khan illustrated the spiritual devotion and community gatherings that define this significant religious period.
Meanwhile, in Hanoi, Vietnam, an artist practiced calligraphy at a stall, a tradition where many Vietnamese decorate their homes with calligraphic artworks during the lunar new year holiday. Photographer Luong Thai Linh captured this blend of artistry and cultural celebration, reflecting the vibrant festivities of the season.
Conflict and Humanitarian Crises
A mourner looked on during the funeral of Nasrallah Muhammad Jamal Abu Siam, a 19-year-old Palestinian who, according to the Palestinian ministry of health, was killed by an Israeli settler in Mikhmas, West Bank. The photograph by Ammar Awad underscored the ongoing tensions and human toll in the area.
In Adre, Chad, Sudanese refugees displaced by conflict waited to collect water. The image by Dan Kitwood highlighted the humanitarian crisis, with recent arrivals fleeing an offensive by the Rapid Support Forces militia group in north Darfur, where reports indicated 6,000 people were killed in three days in October.
Political and Legal Developments
In Seoul, South Korea, a woman reacted as a bus carrying former president Yoon Suk Yeol arrived at the central district court. Yoon was sentenced to life imprisonment with labor over his failed martial law declaration in December 2024, as photographed by Kim Hong-Ji, marking a significant moment in the country's political landscape.
Sports and Competitions
The Dusi canoe marathon in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, saw competitors portaging at the start of day one, captured by Rogan Ward. This extreme sports event showcased athletic endurance and the natural challenges of the course.
At the Winter Olympics in Predazzo, Italy, China’s Zhao Zihe soared through the air during the ski-jumping round of the Nordic combined team sprint, photographed by Kirsty Wigglesworth, highlighting the pinnacle of winter sports competition.
Seasonal and Festive Scenes
In Tokyo, Japan, people took photos of plum blossom on the branches of a tree at the Yushima Tenjin shrine, as captured by Kazuhiro Nogi, celebrating the beauty of nature and seasonal transitions.
Beijing featured festive performances, with robots dressed in traditional costume joining dancers during lunar new year celebrations, photographed by Vincent Thian, and a Chinese opera performer preparing for a show on the third day of the holiday, captured by Pedro Pardo.
Environmental and Urban Moments
In Bouchemaine, France, a man stopped to look at his watch on a street flooded by the Maine River after heavy rainfall, an image by Raphaël Lafargue that illustrated the impacts of weather on daily life.
Frankfurt, Germany, saw cars driving along a road in a park after heavy snowfall overnight, photographed by Michael Probst, depicting the serene yet disruptive effects of winter weather.
Fashion and Culture in London
Backstage at the Paul Costelloe show during London fashion week, models celebrated, captured by Dave Benett, showcasing the glamour and creativity of the city's cultural scene.
This collection of photographs, curated by picture editors, provides a comprehensive visual narrative of global events, blending moments of joy, sorrow, tradition, and innovation into a single day's frame.
