Poland signs Convention Establishing International Claims Commission for Ukraine

The Convention had been negotiated by representatives of more than 50 countries and the European Union. They had agreed that the Commission would operate within the framework of the Council of Europe, under a convention open for signature, including by states which are not members of the Council of Europe. Poland had been represented by Deputy Minister Henryka Mościcka-Dendys. The next step is to ratify the Convention, which requires prior approval, as specified by law.

The Commission is to decide claims for compensation of damage, loss or injury caused by Russia, committed in or against Ukraine on or after 24 February 2022. Its mandate will cover not only the losses incurred by the Ukrainian state, but also those suffered by individuals and legal persons. This means that the Commission will be able to assess claims for compensation filed, for example, by Polish entrepreneurs and Ukrainian citizens that live in Poland.

Poland is an active supporter of Kyiv's efforts in international fora, especially those aimed at post-war reconstruction, stability, and growth. Acceding to the Convention Establishing the International Claims Commission for Ukraine is a visible show of opposition against violating international law. Poland believes that providing a legal framework regarding Russia's accountability for the aggression is vital for achieving a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine.