EU becomes a’fully-fledged participant’ of the Register of Damage for Ukraine

Illustrative image. Photo: ec.europa.eu

The EU Council approved the decision to upgrade the Union’s status in the Register of Damage for Ukraine from Associate Member to Participant.

That’s according to a statement of the European Commission.

“On 30 May 2024, the Commission proposed to the Council to change the Union’s status to further strengthen the Union’s commitment to the activities of the Register. By becoming a fully-fledged participant, the Union keeps up and strengthens its commitment to ensure that all violations of international law committed by Russia will be duly compensated. The change of status also contributes to the financial stability of the Register as the Union commits to providing a mandatory annual financial contribution,” reads the statement.

The representatives of the European Commission agree that Russia cannot and mustn’t avoid the repercussions for its crimes in Ukraine that led to material losses as well.

“Russia must pay for the damage caused by its aggression against Ukraine. The Register of Damage constitutes an important step in that direction, by securely recording evidence and information on claims for damages, losses or injury suffered by Ukrainians for future adjudication and compensation. I welcome today’s decision that confirms and steps up the EU’s strong support to this mechanism,” stated Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders.

Established by the Council of Europe on 12 May 2023, the Register of Damage functions as a mechanism to record evidence and information on Ukrianians’ claims for damages, losses or injuries caused by Russia as the aggressor state. Its goal is to provide efficient reparation for Ukraine and its people.

Now, 43 states and the EU have joined the Register.

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