Photographer documents the millions without official birth or death records

Photographer and filmmaker Juan Arredondo is capturing the stories of millions of people globally who have no official birth or death certificates. His work focuses on these "uncounted" people and the process required to obtain vital records that most of the world takes for granted.

Birth and death certificates serve as proof of identity and citizenship. Without them, people struggle to access education, healthcare, and employment. They cannot travel legally or inherit property.

Arredondo, who is Colombian-American, uses photography and filmmaking to shed light on this overlooked issue. His project documents both the individuals affected and the systems — or lack thereof — that determine who gets counted in official records.

The work reveals how communities create and register vital documents when no government infrastructure exists. Some people navigate informal processes, while others work with humanitarian organisations to establish their official identities for the first time.

By presenting these photographs and films, Arredondo aims to draw global attention to a problem that affects hundreds of millions of people. His project underscores how access to basic documentation remains unequal across the world.