The Robert Capa Gold Medal 1994

Best photographic reporting from abroad requiring exceptional courage and enterprise

Award Year: 1994
Award Name: The Robert Capa Gold Medal 1994
Recipient: James Nachtwey
Affiliation: Magnum for Time Magazine
Honored Work: Election Violence in South Africa

South Africa’s long and difficult transition from apartheid to open, democratic elections was a story that challenged many photojournalists. But James Nachtwey’s I searing, close-up images captured the volatility of South Africa’s historic moment. In keeping with the spirit of this award, Nachtwey clearly exhibited both courage and enterprise in documenting the struggle as the world watched the country’s black majority take political control.

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