The European Union becomes a fully-fledged participant of the Register of Damage for Ukraine

The Commission welcomes today's adoption by the Council of the decision to change the Union's status in the Register of Damage for Ukraine, from Associate Member to Participant. The Register of Damage serves as a record of evidence and information on claims for damages, losses or injuries caused by Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. It aims to ensure full and effective reparation for Ukraine and its people. The Register was established by the Council of Europe on 12 May 2023, with the 43 States and the EU joining so far, including 26 EU Member States.

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.

Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders, said: “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.”

As of April 2024, the first claims related to damage or destruction of residential property started to be registered, with an expected total of 300,000 to 600,000 claims in this category. By August, twelve additional categories of claims will be open for submission, including those from individuals most affected by the war, and claims related to the damage or destruction of Ukraine's critical infrastructure.

More information on the Register of Damage for Ukraine can be found online.

(For more information: Christian Wigand — Tel.: + 32 2 296 22 53; Jördis Ferroli – Tel.: +32 2 299 27 29)