The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is hosting Powerful Encounters: Picturing an end to energy poverty, a compelling photo exhibition showcasing the work of photographer Miriam Strong. Organised in partnership with Friends of the Earth Europe, the exhibition highlights the activism, collectivism and empowerment of communities across Europe who are facing energy poverty. Organised on the initiative of the EESC's Civil Society Organisations' Group, the exhibition will be on display at the EESC's JDE building in Brussels, at Rue Belliard 99-101, from 4 to 16 December.

At the opening event, EESC Vice-president for Communication Aurel Laurenţiu Plosceanu and the president of the EESC's Civil Society Organisations' Group Séamus Boland emphasised the EESC's commitment to eradicating poverty, promoting affordable energy, fostering systemic change and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

In his address, Mr Boland discussed the rising cost of living and increasing poverty levels in Europe, stressing the need for a strong political response from the new European Commission and European Parliament. 'The first-ever EU Anti-Poverty Strategy and the Clean Industrial Deal, announced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her political guidelines for the new European Commission, must provide sustainable solutions to the realities on the ground', Mr Boland said.

Energy Justice Campaigner Laia Segura and Friends of the Earth Communications Officer Yvonne Lemmen underscored that this photo project explores how people confront energy poverty and fight for their right to decent, climate-resilient homes powered by affordable, clean energy. For more information, click here.