Kyiv, 5 December 2025 — The European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) officially launched the documentary photo exhibition “The Lights Stay On” during the XIV Civil Society Forum in Kyiv. The exhibition is a powerful testament to resilience and partnership — a story of how Ukrainians keep light alive even in the darkest times.

Inspired by René Magritte’s “The Waking State,” the exhibition features 15 striking images and stories of Ukrainians rebuilding their lives. Each photograph captures the essence of EU-UNDP cooperation: helping communities not only survive the hardships of war but actively recover, thrive, and ensure that the lights of homes, schools, and hospitals continue to shine.

The exhibition was first displayed at the European Parliament in Brussels in September 2025, at the heart of European democracy. The physical exhibition was complemented by a digital campaign at Brussels Airport, generating 4.7 million impressions. Starting from early 2026, it will travel to several regions of Ukraine where the EU4Recovery flagship partnership between the EU and UNDP operates, bringing these stories closer to communities across the country.

Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, emphasized the EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s recovery and development: “This exhibition is more than photographs; it is a vivid reflection of our partnership and of solidarity in action. Each story shows how our collective efforts translate into real impact on the ground: restoring health care services, supporting local initiatives, and helping communities rebuild. These lights are a beacon of hope and a symbol of our shared vision for a strong, sovereign, and prosperous Ukraine.”

Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, highlighted the human spirit behind the exhibition: “Every photograph here tells a story of resilience — of teachers, medics, volunteers, and community leaders who refuse to give in to darkness. Working hand in hand with the EU, we are committed to empowering communities to build a foundation for a better future. This exhibition honours their efforts and reminds us that true recovery is rooted in people — in their courage and compassion that lights the way forward.”

Background

The visual concept of the exhibition draws inspiration from Magritte’s surreal imagery, where glowing windows float among drifting clouds — a metaphor for presence amid absence. In Ukraine, these luminous frames evoke bombed-out buildings where shattered walls reveal only the open sky, yet the windows continue to shine amidst all the destruction.

The exhibition was developed with financial support from the EU and UNDP, in collaboration with The Ukrainians Media and creative agency Authera. UNDP is grateful to its partners at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Enlargement and the Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST), the Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI), the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Delegation of the European Union to Ukraine for their continued support.

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org