Eurovision: Lib Dems call for a Ukraine cultural reconstruction fund to mark Grand Final

The Liberal Democrats are calling on the Government to create a ‘lasting legacy’ for this week’s Eurovision by setting up a Ukrainian cultural reconstruction fund with the UK’s European allies.

Eurovision 2023 is being hosted by the UK on behalf of Ukraine, after Ukraine was victorious in the 2022 edition of the contest amidst the initial months of Russia’s invasion.

The BBC has emphasised that this Saturday’s Grand Final will have “glorious Ukraine at its heart.”  

To commemorate the occasion, the Liberal Democrats have urged the Government to commemorate the occasion by establishing a Ukrainian cultural reconstruction fund, which would be a lasting legacy of the event and a marker of the close bond between the UK and Ukraine.

The fund could be used once Ukrainian territory has been liberated to facilitate the reconstruction of arts venues such as theatres, concert halls and nightclubs which have been destroyed or damaged by Russia, as well as providing funding for arts education.

Liberal Democrat Culture Spokesperson Jamie Stone MP has written to the Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, asking her to establish this fund and work with European partners to secure funding, as well as offering the British public the opportunity to contribute.

Liberal Democrat Culture Spokesperson Jamie Stone MP commented:

“It is no exaggeration to say that Eurovision in Liverpool promises to be one of the events of the decade. What an honour it is for the UK to host this year’s competition on behalf of our brave Ukrainian friends.

“So let’s use this moment for the good of Ukraine - by establishing a cultural reconstruction fund to help with the rebuilding of all the theatres, concert halls, nightclubs and other buildings which have been destroyed by Putin’s forces.

“I hope the Government will ensure that Saturday’s Eurovision Grand Final will leave a lasting legacy for our Ukrainians allies.”