Statssekretæren signerer avtale på scene
State Secretary Kravik signs the Convention on behalf of Norway. Credit: Guri Solberg/MFA

‘This is an important day for all the victims of Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine. With the establishment of the Claims Commission, they are one step closer to receiving compensation for the massive losses and damages they have suffered. At the same time, we send a clear signal to the aggressor: Russia will be held accountable,‘ said State Secretary Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik.

Broad international support

Representatives from over 50 countries from Europe and other regions attended the event in The Hague, including Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, Moldova’s President Maia Sandu, and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas. State Secretary Kravik signed the convention on behalf of Norway.

The purpose of the compensation mechanism is to ensure that victims of Russia’s war receive reparations for the harm they have endured. The Register of Damage — the first component— is already operational and has received tens of thousands of claims. The Claims Commission will assess and adjudicate these claims. The third component will be a Compensation Fund, which will provide the resources for payments.

‘International efforts to hold Russia legally and financially accountable for the war must go hand in hand with continued strong military and civilian support for Ukraine. At the same time, we must maintain and strengthen pressure on Russia’s war economy. These have been key Norwegian messages today,‘ said Kravik.

Since early 2025, Norway has actively participated in the work to establish the Claims Commission. It will be set up within the organizational framework of the Council of Europe and build on the existing Register of Damage. Norway is now working to ensure the convention enters into force quickly. Once it does, it will likely take a few months before the Commission becomes operational.

Progress is important for victims

The source of funding for the Compensation Fund has not yet been determined. While this question remains, it has been crucial to establish the structures of the compensation mechanism. This progress is also vital for all the victims. Norway will continue to participate in discussions on the most appropriate organization of the Compensation Fund.

‘Ukraine’s fight is also Europe’s — and our —fight. Norway has strong national interests in a world order based on international law. A prerequisite for such an order is that serious violations of international law are met with clear consequences. The Claims Commission is an answer to that,‘ said Kravik.