As the ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine continues to cause immense human suffering, the need for justice and accountability has never been greater. One of the most serious concerns is the forcible transfer or deportation of Ukrainian children, an issue that has drawn widespread international attention and legal action.

As part of efforts to support accountability and long-term justice, the Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation Against Ukraine is preparing to open claims under a new category specifically addressing harm to children, including unlawful deportations. This marks an important step in recognizing the experiences of the youngest victims of the war and laying the groundwork for future compensation.

This event, hosted by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the Institute of International Affairs at the University of Iceland and UNICEF Iceland will highlight the importance of this process and the broader role of accountability after conflict. What does justice for Ukrainian children mean in practice? How can compensation be fair and effective? And how can countries and institutions help turn records of damage into real support for victims?

Opening remarks by Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs

Interventions from Róbert Spanó, Chair of the Board of the Register of Damage for Ukraine and Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir, the Special Envoy of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe on the situation of children of Ukraine

Followed by panel discussions with the speakers, joined by Yulia Kyrpa, Executive Partner AEQUO and Board member of the Register of Damage for Ukraine and Birna Þórarinsdóttir, Executive Director UNICEF Iceland

Moderated by Kári Hólmar Ragnarsson, Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, University of Iceland