When Solidarity Takes Shape

On 11 December 2025, around the Hemicycle of the Council of Europe, the Christmas Charity Market for Ukraine once again brought together cultures, nations and institutions around a shared humanitarian goal. The initiative for this Charity Market was led by Olga Kostenko,

head of the Ukrainian Section of the Amicale of the Council of Europe and president of the PromoUkraïna association, whose vision and leadership made this event a meaningful expression of international solidarity with Ukraine.

This year, 27 countries and the European Union joined the initiative, presenting their Christmas traditions in support of children affected by the war in Ukraine. The association PromoUkraina was represented, actively contributing to this collective expression of solidarity.

Thanks to the exceptional commitment of all participants, over €18,000 were raised and donated to the “Hippocrates” Regional Centre for Medical Rehabilitation and Palliative Care for Children in Kharkiv, providing vital assistance to children in need.

A rich cultural programme gave the market its unique spirit: a Ukrainian Christmas Vertep performed by students from Metz University, the Greek-Cypriot choir, the Ukrainian dance group Tournossol, Moldovan carol singers, Ukrainian performers and the Council of Europe choir. One of the highlights was the charity tombola, enhanced by the arrival of Saint Nicholas, who delighted winners and visitors of all ages.

Warm thanks are extended to the national table coordinators for months of dedicated preparation, to the artists for sharing their talent, and to the Events team and the Amicale for their essential organisational support. Together, they turned this market into more than a festive occasion — a powerful symbol of unity, generosity and hope.