The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has approved a draft convention that provides for the establishment of an International Commission to review Ukraine’s claims against the Russian Federation. This commission is intended to ensure a mechanism for compensating Ukrainian citizens and companies for damages caused by Russian aggression.
This is reported by Business • Media
New compensation mechanism for Ukrainians and businesses
The establishment of the commission will be the second stage of the compensation system that was initiated in 2023 with the creation of the Register of Damages from Russian Aggression. Unlike previous instruments, claims to the new commission can be filed not only by the state of Ukraine but also by individuals and legal entities. This will allow Ukrainians and businesses to protect their rights and demand compensation through an international mechanism.
Legal framework and funding for compensation
Decisions made by the International Commission will be final and will serve as the basis for compensation payments. This structure will enhance the work of the European Court of Human Rights and the future special tribunal that will address crimes of Russian aggression.
Particular attention is drawn to the fact that the commission will consider claims not only for events after February 24, 2022, but also for damages caused since the beginning of the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine on February 20, 2014.
“The time frame of the future commission should not be limited to events after February 24, 2022, as the aggressive war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine began on February 20, 2014.”
The issue of funding for compensation remains unresolved for now. PACE has urged member states to work on establishing an international compensation fund, particularly from frozen Russian assets.