Exhibition “Phenomenon of Strength” – a tribute to Ukrainians and prisoners who resisted in the Russian war

On 28 February, at the National Museum of History of Moldova, the photo exhibition "The Phenomenon of the Resistance" was inaugurated , an event organised by the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova in collaboration with the National Museum of History of Moldova and the National Congress of Ukrainians in Moldova. The exhibition, prepared by the Office of the Ombudsperson of Ukraine, brings to the fore the moving stories of children brought home from deportation, as well as of civilians and prisoners of war who have been held captive by the Russian Federation.

 

The event marked three years since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and brought together high-ranking officials, representatives of the diplomatic corps, members of the Ukrainian community in the Republic of Moldova, journalists and students. Among the important guests of the event was also the Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Moldova, Paun Rohova, who stressed the importance of preserving the memory of these tragic but significant histories.

During the event, the Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Jānis Mažeiks, mentioned that this exhibition recalls that human resistance is stronger than any oppression. "This is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Ukrainian people. For three years, they faced unimaginable hardships, but their courage and determination never weakened. The European Union stands by Ukraine because this is not just their fight - it is a fight for freedom, justice and the values we all share," said Ambassador Mažeiks. 

The leader of the National Congress of Ukrainians in Moldova, Dmitry Lekartev, spoke about the solidarity of Moldovans in these difficult times: “We have shown unprecedented solidarity by opening our hearts and homes to those seeking refuge, showing the world that humanity knows no boundaries. This support did not go unnoticed – last October, Moldovan citizens were awarded the prestigious Nansen Prize by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The whole world has seen that our country, a small state on the map, has a big heart, full of kindness and compassion. Already in the third year of the war, Ukrainians feel our support and it gives them the strength to move forward.”

Exhibition tour and visual impact of the exhibited images 

Those present were invited to explore the 20 photographs exhibited, each of them illustrating the human power to resist suffering and injustice. The images provoked strong reactions, bringing to the public's attention unforgettable stories about suffering, but also about hope.

The exhibition will remain open to the public from 28 February to 28 March 2025, giving visitors the opportunity to reflect on the importance of human rights and international justice. 

Photos of the event can be viewed at this link.

Luciano SCAMBIATO LICCIARDI

delegation-moldova-press@eeas.europa.eu