Photographer Francesco Berlingerio is the Edge of Humanity Magazine contributor of this documentary photography. From the project ‘Shadows of addiction: Kabul’s hidden struggle’. To see Francesco’s body of work, click on any photograph.

Kabul, the vibrant yet troubled capital of Afghanistan, serves as the backdrop for a silent crisis: the pervasive spread of addiction.

Life under the Taliban regime has been marked by strict control, economic hardship, and widespread fear.

This project aims to show how, in the face of overwhelming oppression, individuals may turn to addiction, as a desperate means of escape from harsh realities and a lack of opportunities.

The epidemic of heroin use is linked with the nation’s historical role in global opium production.

The city’s neglected corners and abandoned spaces reveal the toll of this trade, with every image capturing how addiction leaves lasting scars on the urban landscape.

Yet, amidst the decay, the city pushes forward.

Many people who are struggling with addiction, end up in overcrowded hospitals that lack the space and resources to provide proper care.

Conditions are often precarious and without adequate support, many are eventually sent to prison, where their struggles only deepen.

Furthermore, the link between mental health struggles and drug use is often underestimated, leading to inadequate responses and worsening conditions.

As a result, vulnerable individuals face treatment in inhumane environments or are criminalized, highlighting severe human rights violations that demand urgent attention.

The project also serves as a visual exploration of an urban environment in flux, capturing Kabul’s ongoing battle with forces that continue to reshape its spaces and spirit.

Statement 

Francesco Berlingerio is an award-winning photographer. His work is rooted in capturing authentic stories and human connections. 

With a background in photojournalism and a keen eye for social issues, Francesco’s images convey depth and sensitivity, bridging the personal and universal. 

His visual approach is shaped by years of exploring diverse cultures and environments, seeking moments that reveal resilience and humanity.

All images and text © Francesco Berlingerio