“Refugees: A portrait of their journey in Albania” by photographer Renuar Locaj is the new Caritas Albania publication and photo exhibition on  migration. Here is the story.

One powerful way to connect with the human side of migration is through photography. This work dives into migration from a different angle, reflecting on the power of the human spirit. “How strong is a human being?” is the question Locaj had in mind during his shooting.

The result is an incredibly beautiful sequence of faces and stories that usually hide behind the statistics. Locaj’s photo album reminds us that migration is not an abstract concept, nor is it merely a collection of data that increases day by day. It is about real people, each with a unique story that speaks of their life, struggles, hopes and dreams.

One of the main missions of photography is to inspire people to appreciate life. This is done by drawing their attention to things that most of the time are taken for granted and sometimes are considered as not important.”

Renuar Locaj, photographer

In recent days, migration is again making the headlines; but it is rarely considered a natural human phenomenon to improve life’s conditions even though the world has witnessed the repercussions of conflicts and crises in places like Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine and many other countries.

These catastrophic events have forced countless individuals to become refugees, fleeing bombings, violence and destruction. These people, whose lives have been upended by circumstances beyond their control, have embarked on perilous journeys in search of safety and stability.

Migration is an early human experience for a safer or better life. It has been so for Albanians as well. Albania has been affected by the phenomenon of migration in various forms. Many young people and families still leave our country.”

Monsignor Arjan Dodaj, President of Caritas Albania

As we look at these images, we are compelled to think what it means to put the most vulnerable – refugees and migrants – at the centre of our attention and compassion. Their presence among us challenges us to live the principles of fraternity and solidarity and to offer help to those who knock on our doors seeking support on their journey to safety.

Caritas Albania, in collaboration with UNHCR, has been at the forefront of this humanitarian effort since 2015. Our mission is clear: we want to help and support those entering the country, ensuring that they are treated with dignity during their stay.

In the stories of these migrants and refugees we find resilience, courage and the essential spirit of humanity. Their journeys remind us that we are, after all, all part of a shared human experience.

Download the full photo album.