A Visual Chronicle of Global Events on Thursday
The Guardian's picture editors have curated a striking collection of photographs from around the world, offering a diverse snapshot of human activity, conflict, and culture on Thursday, 22nd January 2026. From the snowy peaks of Davos to the war-torn streets of Gaza, these images tell stories of diplomacy, destruction, celebration, and confrontation.
Diplomatic and Economic Gatherings
In Davos, Switzerland, soldiers were photographed holding weather balloons as they walked through the snow during the World Economic Forum annual meeting. The event, taking place from 19th to 23rd January, brings together global leaders to discuss economic and political issues. Another image from Davos captured former US President Donald Trump shaking hands with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán during a signing ceremony for Trump's 'board of peace' initiative, highlighting ongoing diplomatic engagements at the forum.
Conflict and Its Aftermath
The devastating impact of conflict was vividly displayed in photographs from Khan Younis, Gaza, where Palestinians walked along streets surrounded by buildings destroyed during Israeli air and ground operations. In Ukraine, the consequences of Russian aggression were evident in two separate images: sightseers visited the iced-over Odesa waterfront near the Dolphinarium, with tower blocks in the distance that have been hit by Russian drones, and employees walked through the compound of a thermal power plant damaged by multiple Russian missile strikes in an undisclosed location.
Protests and Law Enforcement
In Minneapolis, United States, federal agents were shown detaining a person during an anti-immigration protest, with another photograph depicting agents using pepper spray on protesters. These images underscore the tensions surrounding immigration policies and the methods employed by law enforcement to manage demonstrations.
Cultural and Sporting Events
The day also featured moments of cultural significance and athletic prowess. In Bhaktapur, Nepal, Hindu devotees offered prayers during the Swasthani Brata Katha festival, a month-long event dedicated to the god Madhav Narayan and goddess Swasthani. In Beijing, China, Japan's Mone Chiba performed in the women's short programme during the ISU Figure Skating Four Continents Championships 2026. Meanwhile, in Paris, France, models walked the runway during the Egonlab menswear fall/winter 2026-27 show as part of Paris Fashion Week, showcasing the latest in fashion trends.
Natural and Urban Scenes
Other photographs highlighted the beauty and challenges of the natural world and urban environments. In Yantai, China, snow-covered fishing boats were moored at the Dongkou fishing port in eastern Shandong province. In Anasagar Lake, India, painted storks flew over the water, offering a serene wildlife moment. In Tokyo, Japan, a narrow beam of light illuminated a pedestrian in the Koto district, creating a striking urban tableau. Additionally, in Norwood, Australia, the peloton passed during the second section of the 26th Santos Tour Down Under, a 148.1km section from Norwood to Uraidla, capturing the excitement of competitive cycling.
This collection serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of global events, from high-level political meetings to grassroots cultural practices, all unfolding simultaneously across different corners of the world.
