Norway Joins International Claims Commission for Ukraine to Ensure Reparations

Norway Commits to Ukraine Reparations Mechanism

Norway officially signed the Convention establishing an International Claims Commission for Ukraine on December 16, 2025, at a diplomatic conference held in The Hague, Netherlands. This significant move marks Norway's commitment to ensuring that victims of Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine receive compensation for the extensive damage and losses incurred. State Secretary Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik signed the convention on behalf of Norway.

A Three-Pillar Compensation Framework

The Claims Commission represents the second of three crucial components in a comprehensive international compensation mechanism aimed at holding Russia accountable. The framework includes:

• The Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine (RD4U): Established by the Council of Europe on May 17, 2023, this register serves as the initial step, collecting and documenting claims of damage, loss, or injury. Headquartered in The Hague with an office in Kyiv, the Register began accepting applications on April 2, 2024, and has since recorded over 80,000 claims. Initially, it focused on residential real estate damage, with other categories to follow.
• The International Claims Commission for Ukraine: This newly formalized body will be responsible for reviewing, assessing, and adjudicating the claims submitted to the Register of Damage. Its mandate is to determine the amount of compensation due in each case.
• A Compensation Fund: This third component, still under discussion, will be established to provide the necessary financial resources for the payment of determined compensations.

Broad International Support and Norway's Stance

The signing ceremony in The Hague garnered significant international attention, with representatives from over 50 countries attending. A total of 34 countries and the European Union signed the convention on its opening day. Notable attendees included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, and Moldovan President Maia Sandu.

State Secretary Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik underscored Norway's commitment, stating, '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.' He further emphasized that holding Russia legally and financially accountable must be coupled with continued strong military and civilian support for Ukraine.

Next Steps for Implementation

The convention will officially enter into force once it has been ratified by 25 signatory states and sufficient funds have been secured to support its initial operations. The establishment of this mechanism is rooted in the United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/ES-11/5 of November 14, 2022, which recognized Russia's obligation to provide reparations for its violations of international law in Ukraine.