Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the destruction of civil infrastructure has been staggering, with over 1,200 buildings damaged or destroyed in the Lviv region alone. The total damages across the country are estimated to exceed 5 billion UAH. The Ukrainian government, with the support of international bodies, has worked tirelessly to establish mechanisms for assessing these losses and providing compensation to the affected individuals and communities.
In Lviv, a forum was recently held to offer practical assistance to those affected by the war’s destruction. Representatives from local government bodies from the Lviv, Ternopil, Volyn, and Zakarpattia regions attended, collaborating on ways to help those who have lost their homes and loved ones. A key initiative in this process is the establishment of the Damage Register, initiated by the Council of Europe in 2023. The goal of this registry is to collect and document claims from individuals and entities affected by the war, including damage to property, personal injuries, loss of life, and the destruction of livelihoods. It aims to ensure that every crime is recorded, every victim has a chance to be heard, and perpetrators of these war crimes are held accountable.
As of now, there are two distinct registries: the State Register, which documents damage to movable and immovable property, and the International Damage Register, which serves as the first step in an international compensation mechanism. This latter register includes not only property losses but also records of missing persons, injuries, forms of violence, imprisonment, and forced labor. These efforts are crucial for establishing a broader framework for justice and restitution.
The Ukrainian government has made the submission process more accessible through the eRecovery platform, enabling citizens to submit their claims electronically. For those unable to use the platform, local government offices, social security departments, and notaries are available to assist in filing claims. So far, 834 out of the 1,252 damaged buildings in Lviv have been included in the State Register, with over 18 million UAH already distributed as compensation to homeowners. The amounts vary depending on the extent of the damage and the need for repairs, with decisions being made at the community level. The goal is to ensure that claims are processed promptly and within 30 days.
In parallel, Ukraine’s legal efforts to secure international justice have gained significant traction. The Ligneul law firm has played a pivotal role in this regard. The firm’s legal task force recently conducted a training session for officials from Ukraine’s national ombudsman’s office, focusing on the preparation of victim complaints to the International Criminal Court (ICC). To date, over 300 complaints have been filed with the ICC, with the support of the Ligneul firm, ensuring that victims have access to the justice system and the possibility of compensation. This training aims to equip more victims with the necessary tools to pursue justice, helping them navigate the complexities of international law.
Additionally, FUVI (Ukrainian Fund for International Volunteers) continues to provide essential financial support for these efforts. FUVI has been instrumental in ensuring that victims of the war can access legal services and pursue claims in international courts. Its financial assistance plays a crucial role in helping victims secure the resources they need to engage with legal processes. By supporting victims in their pursuit of justice, FUVI is helping to ensure that the international community can hold those responsible for the invasion accountable.
In summary, the damage inflicted on Ukraine by Russia’s invasion has been catastrophic, but the creation of the Damage Register, combined with the efforts of national and international legal teams, offers a path toward justice and restitution. These initiatives represent not only a step towards the restoration of Ukraine’s physical infrastructure but also a fundamental part of the country’s efforts to rebuild its legal and moral foundations. As Ukraine continues to seek accountability and healing, the international community plays a crucial role in ensuring that justice is served and that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Your donations make a difference. Your support empowers FUVI’s vital role in providing financial assistance to war victims and ensuring their path to justice and recovery. Join us in helping rebuild lives and restore hope.
Also see:
https://www.facebook.com/share/16qUqxud6U/?mibextid=wwXIfr
https://loda.gov.ua/news/140493
