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Kazakhstan declares a state of emergency after mass protests sweep the country over soaring energy prices, forcing the government to resign. These are the biggest protests in Kazakhstan history.

Fuel prices have doubled.

Other issues are involved too, such as anger over the corrupt regime of (technically former) President Nazarbayev, his puppet successor, and the monopoly his family have over politics and business - directly responsible for the price hikes. Civil rights restrictions and a lack of press freedom are also factors.

"“Fuel prices were a catalyst that triggered mass protests over long-held grievances in a country riddled by corruption, lack of political choice and civil freedoms and where ordinary people often struggle to make ends meet while the elite lead luxurious lives,” said Marius Fossum, a regional representative of Norwegian Helsinki Committee based in Almaty."

Dozens of protesters were killed by security forces, with 100s more injured.

At least 12 police officers have been killed in the protests, including one who was beheaded.

Russia and its allies dispatched troops to quell unrest.

Government buildings in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, were set alight.

Historical wooden villas in Zakopane, Poland. Images © Jacek Proniewicz.

Cecilia Paredes.

Mesmerizing photographic works by Peruvian born and Philadelphia-based artist Cecilia Paredes.

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