The European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched the documentary photo exhibition “The Lights Stay On” at the European Parliament’s Info Hub. The exhibition, which is on display until 26 September 2025, provides a powerful visual narrative of Ukraine’s resilience in the face of war and highlights the enduring partnership between the EU and UNDP in supporting recovery and development across the country.

The official opening of the exhibition took place on 16 September, with addresses being given by Petras Auštrevičius, Member of the European Parliament; Serhiy Tereshko, Deputy Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the EU; Teresa Czerwińska, Vice President of the European Investment Bank; Elena Višnar Malinovská, Head of Unit, DG ENEST, European Commission; and Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine.

The exhibition captures the stories and portraits of 15 Ukrainians, showcasing moments of courage, perseverance, and hope. The visual concept draws inspiration from Belgian artist René Magritte’s work “L’état de veille” (“The Waking State”), evoking war-damaged buildings where light shines through broken windows as a symbol of life persisting amid destruction.

Speaking at the event, Petras Auštrevičius, Member of the European Parliament, emphasized European solidarity with Ukraine. “We are delighted to host this exhibition at the heart of European democracy, where Ukraine’s voice is heard and supported,” he said. “In the European Parliament, we see Ukraine’s struggle as our shared responsibility. These stories remind us why Europe must remain united and resolute in its support for Ukraine.”

Serhiy Tereshko, Deputy Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the EU, said, “For Ukrainians, the phrase ‘The Lights Stay On’ exemplifies our resolve. It is also an answer to a world that wondered if we would fall.” He added that the lights “represent a people who refuse to fade into the shadows.” Tereshko also underscored the significance of the EU-UNDP-Ukraine partnership, stating, “Your solidarity is not merely a policy; it is a lifeline sustaining my nation.”

Teresa Czerwińska, Vice President of the European Investment Bank, highlighted the importance of sustainable financing for Ukraine’s recovery. “Behind every photo stands a person, a family, a community,” Czerwińska said. “Their resilience inspires us to invest more in schools, hospitals, energy systems, and housing that will serve Ukrainians long into the future. The EIB is committed to financing not only physical reconstruction, but also the human capital making recovery sustainable.”

Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, said that the exhibition was “more than a collection of photographs: It’s a vivid portrayal of the enduring human spirit, a tribute to the courage of ordinary Ukrainians, and a powerful illustration of a partnership that is paying dividends in the most challenging of times.” He added that the work of UNDP is about “empowering people to not just survive, but to thrive, even under the shadow of war.”
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the EU and UNDP have worked together to rehabilitate critical social infrastructure in war-affected communities and support people-centred recovery across the country. The exhibition reflects the breadth of this partnership and the strength of the Ukrainian people.

Media enquiries:
Brussels: Ludmila Tiganu, Communications Specialist, ludmila.tiganu@undp.org 
Kyiv: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications, yuliia.samus@undp.org