Social Justice News “VYBORENO": A New Culture of Defending Labor Rights 21.10.2026 Why is it important to know the history of the struggle for decent work, understand the role of trade unions, and know how to draw "red lines" in one's relationship with an employer? In Kyiv, the interactive exhibition “VYBORENO" addresses these questions, tracing the history of the labor movement, the experiences of Ukrainians during the war, and initiating a conversation about the future of work. Why is it important to know the history of the struggle for decent work, understand the role of trade unions, and know how to draw "red lines" in one's relationship with an employer? In Kyiv, the interactive exhibition “VYBORENO" addresses these questions, tracing the history of the labor movement, the experiences of Ukrainians during the war, and initiating a conversation about the future of work. The project is supported by the Representative Office of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in Ukraine. On October 16, 2026 the exhibition opened at the National Complex "Expocenter of Ukraine" (VDNG). Titled “HARD WON. Rights do not happen on their own” ("VYBORENO")” the exhibition is dedicated to labor, labor rights, and the people who join forces to transform their living and working conditions. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Felix Hett, Director of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung office in Ukraine, and Kateryna Izmailova, the project’s creator and driving force. The event was recognized as the largest interactive exhibition in Europe to comprehensively integrate the history of labor rights, the trade union movement, worker solidarity, labor during wartime, and the role of workers in the country's reconstruction. This was announced by Hanna Krysiuk, CEO and founder of the "Book of World Records" organization. Trade Union Is Not a Relic of the Past The "VYBORENO" exhibition is significant not merely as a cultural or historical project. Through photo zones and interactive elements, the exhibition invites visitors to delve into the long history of labor relations, seeking solutions to contemporary challenges. Its core message is that the many difficulties people face in the workplace are systemic in nature and can be overcome collectively by joining a trade union. The exhibition also addresses stereotypes surrounding the trade union movement—misconceptions that often deter people from joining. For young people, learning about trade unions is particularly important. Their perception of these organizations is frequently limited to stereotypes—viewing them merely as formal entities associated with subsidized vacation vouchers or holiday gifts. In reality, the modern trade union movement plays a vital role in protecting the rights of workers across sectors such as retail, education, healthcare, industry, services, and the digital economy. Why visit “VYBORENO”? The interactive exhibition “VYBORENO” covers three major themes: the history of labor rights and solidarity, the experience of working during a full-scale war, and the prospects for Ukraine’s reconstruction. The exhibition spans 943 square meters and features 40 thematic zones. By focusing specifically on labor during wartime, the exhibition highlights that a nation’s resilience depends not only on the military, state institutions, or investments; it also rests on the people who continue to work, support their colleagues, and keep enterprises and communities functioning. However, this dedication should never be used as a justification for disregarding their rights. The exhibition in Pavilion No. 10 at the VDNG (Kyiv, 1 Akademika Hlushkova Ave.) is open to visitors until 2 November, 2026 from 11:00 to 19:00. Website: https://www.vyboreno.in.ua
