Ukraine expanded the recording of damage for future reparations from Russia
The International Register of Damage for Ukraine has begun accepting applications in new categories of losses resulting from Russian aggression. Ukraine continues to document the damage caused to the state, citizens and business in order to demand compensation from Russia in the future.
This was reported by head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov.
According to him, recording expenses and losses is part of the work on the future reparations mechanism.
Earlier, the government of Ukraine prepared an expansion of the International Register by 14 more categories. Their implementation in 'Diia' should take place gradually — after the completion of technical preparation of each relevant service.
For individuals, the list provides for the possibility to record the loss of access to medical care and education, other economic losses, as well as violations of international human rights law, international humanitarian law, or the laws and customs of war.
For the state, separate directions are provided related to environmental damage, plundering of natural resources, expenses for demining territories, damage to cultural heritage sites, humanitarian expenses for supporting the population, and other losses of state property.
Opportunities are also expanding for business. Legal entities will be able to claim damage or destruction of objects of cultural value, expenses for relocation and evacuation of economic activity, humanitarian expenses, and other economic losses arising from Russian aggression.
Some categories for the state and business were already operational before the current expansion. In particular, applications could already be submitted in connection with damage or destruction of critical and non-critical infrastructure, and companies could record damage, destruction or loss of assets, including related loss of income.
Applications to the International Register are submitted electronically through the 'Diia' portal. Damage, losses and harm caused as a result of Russia's aggression since February 24, 2022 on the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders can be recorded.
The Register itself does not pay compensation and does not determine their amount. Its task is to collect and systematize applications and supporting evidence, forming an international evidence base of damage caused by Russian aggression.
Applications that meet the established requirements should subsequently be transferred to the International Compensation Commission. This body should consider claims and determine the amount of compensation in each specific case.
The Register of Damage for Ukraine was created in 2023 under the auspices of the Council of Europe as the first element of the international compensation mechanism. It covers losses of individuals and legal entities, as well as of the state of Ukraine itself.
Ukrainian authorities urge victims to preserve documents, photographs, videos and other materials confirming the circumstances and amount of damage. Such information may be needed when submitting an application and further consideration of compensation claims.
