Photos show the world's 'uncounted' people -- and what it takes to be counted

LUSAKA – A poignant photographic and filmmaking project titled "The Uncounted," spearheaded by Colombian-American artist Juan Arredondo, is drawing global attention to a silent crisis affecting millions worldwide: the absence of official birth and death certificates. This critical issue, which renders individuals invisible to state systems and denies them fundamental rights, has significant resonance within Zambia, a nation grappling with its own challenges in ensuring universal civil registration. Arredondo's work delves into the lives of those who exist outside formal documentation, exploring the profound implications of lacking these foundational records. Without a birth certificate, individuals often face insurmountable barriers to accessing education, healthcare, social welfare, and even formal employment. In Zambia, this reality is particularly acute in remote and rural areas, where geographical distance, lack of awareness, and administrative hurdles prevent many from registering births. The project illuminates not just the problem, but also the meticulous processes involved in creating these vital records, often through the dedicated efforts of community workers and government officials striving to reach the most vulnerable populations. The absence of accurate birth registration data in Zambia not only impacts individual citizens but also hinders national development planning. Without precise figures on births and deaths, policymakers struggle to allocate resources effectively for schools, clinics, and other essential services. The "Uncounted" project serves as a powerful visual and narrative reminder of the human cost of statistical gaps, advocating for robust civil registration systems as a cornerstone of good governance and human rights. It prompts a critical examination of how nations, including Zambia, can enhance their outreach and simplify registration procedures to ensure no citizen is left behind. Furthermore, the project touches upon the equally