Paula Bronstein Photojournalist

Economic, social, and political changes

  • Mongolia is one of the coldest places on the planet with temperatures dropping as low as -25C on an average winter day.The country suffered one of the most difficult winters in over 30 years. In Mongolian language its called the “Zud”, a Mongolian term which is a multiple natural disaster consisting of a summer drought producing small stockpiling of fodder, followed by very heavy winter snow and bitter cold. ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 5 : A Mongolian elderly woman looks out from a frosty window riding on a city bus March 5, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Mongolia is still experiencing one of the worst Winters in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Recently, the UN allocated $3.7 million for humanitarian assistance to Mongolia from its Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). Currently 1.5 m goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
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  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 18: A young Mongolian boy sits in a motorized toy car wearing traditional dress at Sukhbataar Square October 18, 2012 Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi, the copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • ULAN BATOR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 14: Mongolian media capture the removal of the Vladimir Lenin bronze statue on October 14, 2012 in Ulan Bator, Mongolia. The Soviet era four meter high statue was neglected and a decision was made by the mayor of Ulan Bator, Bat Uul Erdene to have it removed because it represented the repression of the Soviet years. It was erected 58 years ago and will be sold starting at 400,000 tugrik or $287. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 6 : A Mongolian boy looks out from a frosty window on a city bus March 6, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Mongolia is still experiencing one of the worst Winters in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Recently, the UN allocated $3.7 million for humanitarian assistance to Mongolia from its Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). Currently 1.5 m goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 18: Mongolians herders walk their horses past a building under construction October 18, 2012 Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi, the copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 18: A Mongolian boy on rollerblades hangs out at Sukhbataar Square October 18, 2012 Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi, the copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 18: A Mongolian bride leaves the Gandan monastery waiting for her limousine to depart on a special day on the Lunar calendar for wedding ceremonies October 18, 2012 Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi, the copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
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  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 18: A Mongolian wedding party poses for a photo at the wedding hall where many couples turned out to get married on a special day on the Lunar calendar weddings October 18, 2012 Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi, the copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
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  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 8: Enkhnaraa ,2, looks out from her home located near the OyuTolgoi mine October 8, 2012 located in the south Gobi desert, Khanbogd region, Mongolia. Her father is employed at the mining site and the family lives in a common traditional Mongolian circular structure made out of felt called a Ger. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia. Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date is projected to increase the country’s GDP by 35%. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • BAYANTSOGT, MONGOLIA-MARCH 8 : Munkhbat (r) struggles to deal with loosing almost half of his herd sitting with his wife Munkhamgalan and babyAnuungoo, 4 months inside their small nomadic hut March 8, 2010 in Bayantsogt, in Tuv province in Mongolia. Mongolia is still experiencing one of the worst Winters in 30 years with 68 % of the provinces effected. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Recently, the UN allocated $3.7 million for humanitarian assistance to Mongolia from its Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) is developing a cash-for-work program under which herders will earn income to clear and bury the carcasses of the over 2 million livestock that have perished nationwide. Currently 1.5 m goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 9: Camels graze on the open desert near the Oyu Tolgoi mine October 9, 2012 located in the south Gobi desert, Khanbogd region, Mongolia. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia. Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date is projected to increase the country’s GDP by 35%. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 10: Mongolian herder BuangUtze leads her camels out to be tied up for the night near the Oyu Tolgoi mine October 10, 2012 located in the south Gobi desert, Khanbogd region, Mongolia. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia. Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date is projected to increase the country’s GDP by 35%. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 10: Mongolian herder Daalduh leads her camels out to be tied up for the night near the Oyu Tolgoi mine October 10, 2012 located in the south Gobi desert, Khanbogd region, Mongolia. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia. Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date is projected to increase the country’s GDP by 35%. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 12: Large herds of camels in the desert move along the newly paved 110k of road build by Oyu Tolgoi towards the Chinese border October 12, 2012 located in the south Gobi desert, Khanbogd region, Mongolia. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia. Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date is projected to increase the country’s GDP by 35%. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • BAYANTSOGT, MONGOLIA-MARCH 14 : Frozen animal remains along the Mongolian landscape March 14, 2010 in Bayantsogt, in Tuv province in Mongolia. Mongolia is still experiencing one of the worst Winters in 30 years with 68 % of the provinces effected. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Recently, the UN allocated $3.7 million for humanitarian assistance to Mongolia from its Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) is developing a cash-for-work program in Mongolia under which herders will earn income to clear and bury the carcasses of the over 2 million livestock that have perished nationwide. Currently 1.5 m goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • Dealing with another snowstorm, Muukhbayar,50, stands with daughter Javzmaa, age5, next to their goat that died from starvation in Sergelen, in Tuv province in Mongolia. The family lost 200 of their herd from 500, the family said that many herder nomadic families moved due to the severe cold and snow. Mongolia is still experiencing one of the worst Winters in 30 years with 68 % of the provinces effected. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow.
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  • Mongolia is one of the coldest places on the planet with temperatures dropping as low as -25C on an average winter day.The country suffered one of the most difficult winters in over 30 years. In Mongolian language its called the “Zud”, a Mongolian term which is a multiple natural disaster consisting of a summer drought producing small stockpiling of fodder, followed by very heavy winter snow and bitter cold. ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 16 : The sunsets over the hills as the cold takes over another night in the Ger district March 16, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. In the winter this means extreme hardship, with temperatures dropping below -25C mid- Winter. As Mongolia experiences extreme cold and snow struggling during the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 m goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 16 : Otgonjargal, 10, sits on the icy cold street singing to get some quick cash March 16, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Otgonjargal spends her time on the streets, not at school. She frequents the Save The Children drop - in center on weekdays and many times runs away with her 2 sisters to stay with other street children. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 13 : Erdenetsetseg,36, sits on a water pipe inside the sewer filled with garbage where she lives March13, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Erdenetsetseg moved to the capitol city from a province five years ago, without work she collects cans and bottles to make enough money to buy a little food and her daily fix of vodka. Since 70 years of communist rule ended in 1990, Mongolia has become one of the most pro-business countries. While economic reforms have brought prosperity to Ulaan Baatar, there still widespread unemployment, some used to work in the now defunct state industries. Approximately over 35% of Mongolians live below the poverty line, many unable to buy basic food needed to survive. Social problems include depression, alcohol abuse, domestic violence and crime. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment. For the homeless during the winter this means extreme hardship, for some homeless living in the sewers means warmth verses dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 13 : Erdenetsetseg,36, drink vodka, living in a sewer filled with garbage March 13 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Erdenetsetseg moved to the capitol city from a province five years ago, without work she collects cans and bottles to make enough money to buy a little food and her daily fix of vodka. Since 70 years of communist rule ended in 1990, Mongolia has become one of the most pro-business countries. While economic reforms have brought prosperity to Ulaan Baatar, there still widespread unemployment, some used to work in the now defunct state industries. Approximately over 35% of Mongolians live below the poverty line, many unable to buy basic food needed to survive. Social problems include depression, alcohol abuse, domestic violence and crime. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment. For the homeless during the winter this means extreme hardship, for some homeless living in the sewers means warmth verses dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 13 : Erdenetsetseg,36, rests on a water pipe, used as her bed living in a sewer filled with garbage March 13 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Erdenetsetseg moved to the capitol city from a province five years ago, without work she collects cans and bottles to make enough money to buy a little food and her daily fix of vodka. Since 70 years of communist rule ended in 1990, Mongolia has become one of the most pro-business countries. While economic reforms have brought prosperity to Ulaan Baatar, there still widespread unemployment, some used to work in the now defunct state industries. Approximately over 35% of Mongolians live below the poverty line, many unable to buy basic food needed to survive. Social problems include depression, alcohol abuse, domestic violence and crime. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment. For the homeless during the winter this means extreme hardship, for some homeless living in the sewers means warmth verses dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • A drunk woman, who fell and hit her head is left without any help, passed out along the street March 16, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. During the winter this means extreme hardship, for the homeless with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced extreme cold and snow during the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 mgoats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity.(Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • Mongolia is one of the coldest places on the planet with temperatures dropping as low as -25C on an average winter day.The country suffered one of the most difficult winters in over 30 years. In Mongolian language its called the “Zud”, a Mongolian term which is a multiple natural disaster consisting of a summer drought producing small stockpiling of fodder, followed by very heavy winter snow and bitter cold. A homeless drunk rests in the sewer where he lives after drinking vodka March 16, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Since 70 years of communist rule ended in 1990, Mongolia has become one of the most pro-business countries. While economic reforms have brought prosperity to Ulaan Baatar, there still widespread unemployment, some used to work in the now defunct state industries. Approximately over 35% of Mongolians live below the poverty line, many unable to buy basic food needed to survive. Social problems include depression, alcohol abuse, domestic violence and crime. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment. For the homeless during the winter this means extreme hardship, for some homeless living in the sewers means warmth verses dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • Mongolia is one of the coldest places on the planet with temperatures dropping as low as -25C on an average winter day.The country suffered one of the most difficult winters in over 30 years. In Mongolian language its called the “Zud”, a Mongolian term which is a multiple natural disaster consisting of a summer drought producing small stockpiling of fodder, followed by very heavy winter snow and bitter cold. ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 9 : Munkhtetseg, an alchoholic cries as she explains that she has no job, sitting in a dark , cold house next to daughters Otogonjargal, 10 (center) and Enkhtsetseg,13 ( left) March 9, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The family could not pay the electricity bill so they only have candles and barely enough money to buy wood for the stove to warm up the small house. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. In the winter this means extreme hardship, with temperatures dropping below -25C mid- Winter. As Mongolia experiences extreme cold and snow struggling during the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 m goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
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  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 16 : Otgonjargal, 10, (right) sister Zulaa,18, (center) and friend Sainaa (left) sit in a freezing cold house without electricity March 16, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. They spend their time on the streets, not at school. They frequent the Save The Children drop - in center on weekdays and many times stay with other street children. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 16 : Zolzaya, 18, is 7 months pregnant, her huge belly is covered with what she says is an allergy, insect bites from living amongst the bacteria in the sewer March 16, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Since 70 years of communist rule ended in 1990, Mongolia has become one of the most pro-business countries. While economic reforms have brought prosperity to Ulaan Baatar, there still widespread unemployment, some used to work in the now defunct state industries. Approximately over 35% of Mongolians live below the poverty line, many unable to buy basic food needed to survive. Social problems include depression, alcohol abuse, domestic violence and crime. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment. For the homeless during the winter this means extreme hardship, for some homeless living in the sewers means warmth verses dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 5 : Mongolian men wear head lamps collecting and recycling after sunset at a dump March 5, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The average money made per day is $6.50 US. Working at the garbage dump means extreme hardship, long hours outside in frigid temperatures dropping below -25C in the Winter as Mongolia experienced one of the worst Winters in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 million goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity.(Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • Mongolia is one of the coldest places on the planet with temperatures dropping as low as -25C on an average winter day.The country suffered one of the most difficult winters in over 30 years. In Mongolian language its called the “Zud”, a Mongolian term which is a multiple natural disaster consisting of a summer drought producing small stockpiling of fodder, followed by very heavy winter snow and bitter cold. ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 5 : Mongolians work collecting and recycling at a dump keeping warm by a fire March 5, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The average money made per day is $6.50 US. Working at the garbage dump means extreme hardship, long hours outside in frigid temperatures dropping below -25C in the Winter as Mongolia experienced one of the worst Winters in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 million goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity.(Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 5 : A Mongolian woman drags cardboard to the truck working collecting and recycling the garbage at a dump March 5, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Working at the garbage dump means extreme hardship, long hours outside in frigid temperatures dropping below -25C in the Winter as Mongolia experienced one of the worst Winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 million goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity.(Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 5 : Turu, a Mongolian worker collapses after having a serious seizure while working collecting and recycling the garbage at a dump March 5, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Working at the garbage dump means extreme hardship, long hours outside in frigid temperatures dropping below -25C in the Winter as Mongolia experienced one of the worst Winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 million goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity.(Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 5 : A Mongolian man breaks apart a light working collecting and recycling at a dump March 5, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The average money made per day is $6.50 US. Working at the garbage dump means extreme hardship, long hours outside in frigid temperatures dropping below -25C in the Winter as Mongolia experienced one of the worst Winters in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 million goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity.(Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 16 : Mongolian boys ages 12-14 warm up next to a fire at the garbage dump where they work March 16, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 5 : Mongolian men keep warm by a fire working collecting and recycling at a dump March 5, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The average money made per day is $6.50 US. Working at the garbage dump means extreme hardship, long hours outside in frigid temperatures dropping below -25C in the Winter as Mongolia experienced one of the worst Winters in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow. Currently 1.5 million goats, 921,000 sheep, 169,000 cows and yaks, 89,000 horses and 1,500 camels had died according to the various UN agency reports. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity.(Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • A young Mongolian girl stands outside her Ger March 12, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. In the winter this means extreme hardship, with temperatures dropping below -25C mid- Winter.
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  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 10 : At the Lighthouse girls shelter girls wait for everyone to sit down for dinner March 10, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The Lighthouse is a World Vision sponsored shelter where 18 girls live from age 5-18. After that the state labels them as being abandoned or orphaned they go from the temporary welfare center to the more permanent shelters like the Lighthouse wher ethey live together is a home, sleeping, eating and going to public schools. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 13: Students line up during a physical education program at the Khanbogd Secondary school October 13, 2012 in Khanbogd, Mongolia. The population of Khanbogd has doubled in the last few years along with the secondary school adding a new extension to accommodate the growing number of students since Oyu Tolgoi employs most of the people in the town.The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia. Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date which is projected to add one-third of future value to the country’s GDP. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
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  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 13: Students line up during a physical education program at the Khanbogd Secondary school October 13, 2012 in Khanbogd, Mongolia. The population of Khanbogd has doubled in the last few years along with the secondary school adding a new extension to accommodate the growing number of students since Oyu Tolgoi employs most of the people in the town.The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia. Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date which is projected to add one-third of future value to the country’s GDP. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
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  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 11 : Mongolian street kids get registered at the child detention center March 11, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The police picked up a dozen boys to get them off the streets in the cold weather housing them at the Ulaan Bataar Child Welfare/ detention center sponsored by World Vision. There about 45 kids live in the dormitory where they get hot food, showers, and some educational activities until their parents claim them. Before the children can go into more permanent shelters they are kept in the welfare center for up to 6 months. After that the state labels them as being abandoned or orphaned. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 11 : Mongolian street kids get registered at the child detention center March 11, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The police picked up a dozen boys to get them off the streets in the cold weather housing them at the Ulaan Bataar Child Welfare/ detention center sponsored by World Vision. There about 45 kids live in the dormitory where they get hot food, showers, and some educational activities until their parents claim them. Before the children can go into more permanent shelters they are kept in the welfare center for up to 6 months. After that the state labels them as being abandoned or orphaned. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 11 : Mongolian street kids wait in line to get registered at the child detention center March 11, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The police picked up a dozen boys to get them off the streets in the cold weather housing them at the Ulaan Bataar Child Welfare/ detention center sponsored by World Vision. There about 45 kids live in the dormitory where they get hot food, showers, and some educational activities until their parents claim them. Before the children can go into more permanent shelters they are kept in the welfare center for up to 6 months. After that the state labels them as being abandoned or orphaned. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 11 : Mongolian street kids eat a midday snack of tea and bread at the child detention center March 11, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The police picked up a dozen boys to get them off the streets in the cold weather housing them at the Ulaan Bataar Child Welfare/ detention center sponsored by World Vision. There about 45 kids live in the dormitory where they get hot food, showers, and some educational activities until their parents claim them. Before the children can go into more permanent shelters they are kept in the welfare center for up to 6 months. After that the state labels them as being abandoned or orphaned. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 11 : Mongolian street kids excercise at the child detention center March 11, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The police picked up a dozen boys to get them off the streets in the cold weather housing them at the Ulaan Bataar Child Welfare/ detention center sponsored by World Vision. There about 45 kids live in the dormitory where they get hot food, showers, and some educational activities until their parents claim them. Before the children can go into more permanent shelters they are kept in the welfare center for up to 6 months. After that the state labels them as being abandoned or orphaned. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • ULAAN BAATAR, MONGOLIA-MARCH 11 : Mongolian street kids excercise at the child detention center March 11, 2010 in Ulaan Baatar, Mongolia. The police picked up a dozen boys to get them off the streets in the cold weather housing them at the Ulaan Bataar Child Welfare/ detention center sponsored by World Vision. There about 45 kids live in the dormitory where they get hot food, showers, and some educational activities until their parents claim them. Before the children can go into more permanent shelters they are kept in the welfare center for up to 6 months. After that the state labels them as being abandoned or orphaned. Mongolia suffers with a very high number of alcoholics, all consuming cheap Mongolian vodka that is readily available to the poor and the unemployed, Many Mongolians have immigrated to the capitol city from the far away provinces seeking employment, living in rented traditional circular felt yurts with no running water or electricity. The problem is severe causing the number of street children to rise, fleeing their abusive, dysfunctional homes. Some children are regularly beaten at home, and for the impoverished it is common to send the child out to make money. During the winter this means extreme hardship, the children out on the city streets are dealing with temperatures dropping as low as -25C mid- Winter. This year Mongolia has experienced the worst winter in 30 years. Presently the government has declared an emergency requiring foreign aid to alleviate the impact of the {quote} Zud{quote} ( Mongolian term for a multiple natural disaster) caused by bitter cold and thick snow that has effected 68% of the provinces. (Photo by Paula Bronstein /Getty Images)
  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 11: Chinese construction workers march together as they leave on a lunch break at the Oyu Tolgoi mine October 11, 2012 located in the south Gobi desert, Khanbogd region, Mongolia. About 2,500 Chinese workers are contracted to help with construction onsite. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia. Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date is projected to increase the country’s GDP by 35%. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • KHANBOGD-SOUTH GOBI DESERT, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 10: Workers walk along the conveyer belt used to move ore to the concentrator area at the Oyu Tolgoi mine October 10, 2012 located in the south Gobi desert, Khanbogd region, Mongolia. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine (translated means Turquiose Hill) is a combined open pit and underground mining project. While the construction continues open pit mining is currently underway with full production expected later in 2012. When the mine starts full operation the country will be set to become one of the world's top copper and gold producers with estimates of 450,000 tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold. Financing for the project has come in part from the Rio Tinto Group and an investment agreement between Ivanhoe Mines and the government of Mongolia.Mongolia’s largest foreign investment project to date is projected to increase the country’s GDP by 35%. Many estimate Mongolia to be the world's fastest growing economy with an estimated $1.3 trillion in untapped mineral resources. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
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  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 26: President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj rides his horse along the grounds of the presidential residence October 26, 2012 in Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj was elected on May 25, 2009, he had previously served two terms as Prime Minister and held the positions of Deputy Speaker and Majority Leader in Parliament. The first lady, Bolormaa Khajidsuren is a mother of 4 children, and the extended Presidential family includes 20 foster children coming from a variety of government children's homes. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
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  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 26: The first lady, Bolormaa Khajidsuren watches her husband President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj get dressed to go horsebackriding on the estate October 26, 2012 in Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj was elected on May 25, 2009, he had previously served two terms as PrimeMinister and held the positions of Deputy Speaker and Majority Leader in Parliament. The first lady, Bolormaa Khajidsuren is a mother of 4 children, and the extended Presidential family includes 20 foster children coming from a variety of government children's homes. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 26: President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj and first lady, Bolormaa Khajidsuren (L) share laughs with their foster children while drinking milk tea inside a Ger at the presidential residence October 26, 2012 in Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj was elected on May 25, 2009, he had previously served two terms as Prime Minister and held the positions of Deputy Speaker and Majority Leader in Parliament. The first lady, Bolormaa Khajidsuren is a mother of 4 children, and the extended Presidential family includes 20 foster children coming from a variety of government children's homes. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 26: President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj and the first lady, Bolormaa Khajidsuren enjoys some warm moments as they sit down with their children for lunch October 26, 2012 in Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj was elected on May 25, 2009, he had previously served two terms as Prime Minister and held the positions of Deputy Speaker and Majority Leader in Parliament. The first lady, Bolormaa Khajidsuren is a mother of 4 children, and the extended Presidential family includes 20 foster children coming from a variety of government children's homes. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • ULAANBATAAR, MONGOLIA - OCTOBER 26: some of the foster children to get dressed after they returned from school inside the presidential residence October 26, 2012 in Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj was elected on May 25, 2009, he had previously served two terms as Prime Minister and held the positions of Deputy Speaker and Majority Leader in Parliament. The first lady, Bolormaa Khajidsuren is a mother of 4 children, and the extended Presidential family includes 20 foster children coming from a variety of government children's homes. Some 100 years ago, Mongolia gained independence from Qing China, and more than 20 years ago it removed itself from the Soviet Bloc. Since then, the country has been undergoing massive social, economic and political changes. The Oyu Tolgoi copper and gold mine is Mongolia’s biggest foreign investment project to date adding an estimated 35% value to the country’s GDP. Mongolia is a land of amazing contrasts and is the most sparsely populated country on earth with fewer than 3 million people. (Photo by Paula Bronstein/Getty Images)
  • A Mongolian wrestler looks into a camera during a break in wrestling practice. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
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  • Mongolian wrestlers go through warm up exercises at a local wrestling school in Ulan Batar. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • Mongolian wrestlers practice their squats trying to strengthen their thighs during practice at a local wrestling school. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • Hundreds of Mongolian wrestlers practice at a local wrestling school in Ulan Bataar. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • Mongolian wrestlers stand at attention before starting their practice at a local wrestling school. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • Young Mongolian wrestlers practice during gym class where youth learn the national sport in Ulan Batar. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • Mongolian wrestlers pull a matt out before practice begins at a local wrestling school. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • A Mongolian wrestler uses a bar to do pull ups during practice at a local wrestling schol. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • Mongolian wrestlers jump during warm up exercises at a local wrestling school in Ulan Batar. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • Mongolian wrestlers stand at attention before starting their practice at a local wrestling school. Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country on earth, but its people are some of the strongest. In Mongolia, wrestling is the most important sport that runs deep into its culture along with horsemanship and archery. Going back for hundreds of years, history books tell the story of how Genghis Khan considered wrestling to be an important way to keep his army combat ready while back in the Qing Dynasty (1646–1911) regular wrestling events were held. In Mongolia’s capitol city, Ulan Batar is home to many wrestling schools where almost daily you can see dozens of young men sweating in crowded gyms while in schools both girls and boys are taught some wrestling techniques.While my photo story gives a real behind the scenes look, it is unusual for a woman to document this macho scene of sweat and endurance.
  • COVERING THE WORLD
  • A DEVASTATING WAR IN UKRAINE
  • AFGHANISTAN BETWEEN HOPE AND FEAR - THE BOOK
  • UKRAINE'S ELDERLY: LEFT BEHIND BY WAR
  • UKRAINE BALLET: DANCE DURING WARTIME
  • ROHINGYA: STATELESS AND UNWANTED
  • GAZA: CRIPPLED FOR LIFE
  • LESBOS: THE REFUGEE MIGRATION
  • SILENT VICTIMS OF A FOREVER WAR
  • FEMALE MARINES IN AFGHANISTAN
  • ACID VIOLENCE: STOLEN FACES
  • CLIMATE CHANGE: NATURAL DISASTERS
  • DISPLACED BY WAR SOUTH SUDAN
  • MONGOLIA: CHANGING LANDSCAPE
  • BHUTAN: THE KING AND HIS PEOPLE
  • CORPORATE, INDUSTRIAL - Mongolia
  • BURMA: TURMOIL AND POLITICS
  • INDONESIA'S MENTAL HEALTH: Living In Chains
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