The Register of Damage for Ukraine (RD4U), established under the auspices of the Council of Europe, has announced the opening of six new categories of applications for Ukrainians who have suffered serious human rights violations as a result of Russia's aggression
The new categories of applications were announced during a meeting between the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal and representatives of the President's Office, the Ministry of Justice and the RD4U management. The Ukrainian authorities emphasise the importance of filing applications and urge citizens to actively use this opportunity.
"Ukraine is working to ensure that all perpetrators are held accountable and victims receive compensation. The next step will be to launch applications for legal entities and state institutions," said Denys Shmyhal.
Robert Spano, Chairman of the RD4U Board, stressed the importance of this initiative: "International law is clear: the suffering of victims must be recognised. By opening these categories, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles of justice."
The Registry's Executive Director, Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi, urged victims to actively submit their claims: "The launch of these new categories of claims is an important milestone in our efforts to document the enormous human suffering caused by this war. We encourage all victims to submit their claims. Each submission strengthens the foundation for justice and future reparations."
Since its inception, RD4U has been working to document the damage caused to ensure that victims of war are entitled to reparations. The opening of new categories allows us to cover even more cases of gross human rights violations and ensures that these violations do not go unpunished.
Applications will be accepted under the following new categories:
A1.1 Forced internal displacement
A2.3 Serious bodily harm
A2.4 Sexual violence
A2.5 Torture, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment
A2.6 Deprivation of liberty
A2.7 Forced labour or service
These categories are in addition to the existing possibilities of filing applications, in particular, for the death of a close relative, disappearance and destruction of residential property.
How to apply?
Applicants can use the Diia platform, which guarantees quick access to the application service. Detailed instructions and information can also be found on the official website of the RD4U. In addition, for citizens who need additional explanations, a special Guide has been developed by the Institute of Legislative Ideas to help them get acquainted with the application process and requirements for filling out the application.
The opening of these six new categories is only a part of the larger process of creating an international compensation mechanism. Negotiations are currently underway to launch an international compensation commission that will review applications and award payments. In addition, Ukraine is actively working with its Western partners to confiscate Russian frozen assets to be used for compensation to victims. "We have a strong coalition of support from more than 50 countries and organisations that are helping Ukraine to restore justice," the Prime Minister said.
Thus, the compensation mechanism is gradually gaining momentum, and with each application submitted, victims of war crimes are getting closer to receiving compensation.