According to the Council of Europe, the establishment of the Register of Damage, endorsed by 44 countries and the European Union, marks a significant milestone in holding Russian Federation accountable for its aggression against Ukraine. The decision was made at the Reykjavik Summit, where leaders emphasised the need for comprehensive accountability and support for Ukraine. Under the auspices of the Council of Europe, it is intended that the Register will serve as a repository for evidence and claims related to the damage, loss, and injury caused by Russia’s brutal war.
Icelandic President Katrín Jakobsdóttir highlighted the Council of Europe’s pivotal role in ensuring accountability and expressed solidarity with Ukraine. Marija Pejčinović Burić, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, described the Register as historic and crucial for supporting victims and enabling compensation mechanisms. The European Union, through its President of the European Council and President of the European Commission, has made a substantial contribution to the startup costs of the Register.
The Hague, renowned as the legal capital of the world, will host the main office of the Register, while a satellite office will be established in Ukraine. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte emphasised the importance of holding Russia accountable and expressed pride in The Hague being chosen as the Register’s seat. The Register, operational for an initial three-year period, will play a pivotal role in recording evidence and claims information, paving the way for a future comprehensive compensation mechanism for victims.
Denys Shmyhal, the Ukrainian Prime Minister, expressed gratitude for the establishment of the Register and called on states worldwide to join as a sign of support for Russia’s accountability. He in his turn underlined the significance of the Register as a milestone towards justice and reparations for Ukraine and its people. Shmyhal stressed the need for operational efficiency to facilitate the submission of claims by victims of Russian aggression. Furthermore, he underscored that the Register is just the first step towards a comprehensive compensation mechanism, ensuring that Russia pays full reparations to Ukraine in accordance with international law, including utilising its international assets.
With the establishment of the Register of Damage, the international community sends a strong message of support to Ukraine and takes a crucial step towards accountability and justice for the victims of Russia’s aggression. The collective effort and commitment displayed by participating countries demonstrate their dedication to upholding international law and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
At Mazur Ivanusa, LLC, we remain committed to closely monitoring the developments surrounding the operationalisation of the Register of Damage and will continue to stay updated on the progress and any further advancements in establishing a comprehensive compensation mechanism. We will stand ready to provide comprehensive legal assistance and support to those seeking to submit their claims and pursue rightful compensation.
For ongoing updates and detailed information regarding the operational status of the Register, we encourage you to stay connected with us. Feel free to reach out to us at info@mazurivanusa.com, and our team will be delighted to assist you.