Ratification of the Convention Establishing the International Compensation Commission
Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada has ratified the Convention on the Establishment of the International Compensation Commission for Ukraine. This initiative represents the second pillar of a global compensation framework designed to address damages caused by the Russian Federation’s armed aggression that began on February 24, 2022. Operating under the auspices of the Council of Europe, the commission will function as an independent body. For context, this mechanism builds on earlier efforts to document losses through the International Register of Damages, a key first step in securing reparations for war-affected parties.
Compensation Mechanism
The compensation scheme covers the entirety of Ukraine’s territory within its internationally recognized borders, including its territorial sea and airspace. The commission will evaluate complaints and claims recorded in the International Register of Damages. The Convention will enter into force three months after two technical conditions are met:
- At least 25 signatory countries must consent to be legally bound by the Convention.
- Their combined contributions to the Register’s 2025 budget must cover a minimum of 50% of the total budget, which stands at approximately €3.69 million.
The Convention was officially opened for signature on December 16, 2025, at a conference in The Hague. To date, over 30 states have joined the initiative, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Poland, as well as Baltic and Nordic nations. The European Union is also participating in this process.
Who Is Eligible for Compensation?
Eligible claimants include individuals—such as citizens whose homes or health have been harmed by the armed aggression—as well as legal entities like businesses and enterprises. The state of Ukraine, represented by central, regional, and local authorities, along with state institutions and controlled organizations, may also submit claims for damages.
In essence, the ratification marks a critical step toward compensating war-related losses and establishing an independent mechanism to safeguard the rights of affected individuals and organizations.
By approving this Convention, Ukraine has unlocked new pathways for redressing war damages while underscoring the international community’s solidarity with the country during this challenging period. The broad participation of numerous nations highlights a collective commitment to supporting aggression victims and fostering Ukraine’s recovery. Fulfilling the technical prerequisites for the Convention’s activation will be the next major milestone in implementing this framework.
As the framework for compensation takes shape, it is essential to understand the broader implications of international support for Ukraine. The recent approval by the European Parliament regarding the compensation commission highlights a significant step towards securing reparations and addressing the needs of those affected by the ongoing conflict.