Under the auspices of the Council of Europe, an International Claims Commission for Ukraine has been established, with Georgia signing the founding convention through Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili.

According to the Council of Europe, the commission forms the second pillar of a broader compensation mechanism linked to Russia’s war of aggression, following the 2023 establishment of the Register of Damage for Ukraine, which has already received around 86,000 claims from individuals, organisations, and public bodies. The commission will assess these claims and determine compensation. The convention will enter into force after ratification by 25 signatories, provided sufficient funding is secured.

Speaking in The Hague, Botchorishvili stressed the need for effective legal tools to ensure Ukraine receives compensation for the damage caused by the unjust war, noting that Georgia, as a founding member of the Register of Damage, supports this next step. She also highlighted Georgia’s own experience with occupation and unresolved injustice, underscoring the importance of accountability and adherence to international law.

The diplomatic conference was attended by leaders and high-level representatives from over 50 countries, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Moldovan President Maia Sandu, and Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof. Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset described the commission as a major step toward accountability and justice for victims, while participants emphasized that accountability is essential for lasting peace and European security.