CoE: Russia must compensate for the damage to Ukraine’s churches

Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe. Photo: Ukrinform

The restoration of Ukraine's cultural heritage should become a key topic at the upcoming conference on the country's reconstruction, which will be held in Rome in 2025. Local authorities should document the damage, according to the resolution of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, reports Ukrinform.

The document emphasizes that the destruction and looting of cultural sites in Ukraine appear to be part of a systematic policy aimed at erasing the country's historical and cultural identity, which is comparable to genocidal intent.

The Congress also calls on local and regional authorities in Europe to increase their support for Ukraine in this area and to establish partnerships for the protection of cultural heritage. Key aspects of assistance include documenting the damage, digitization, as well as the protection and stabilization of both tangible and intangible heritage.

The resolution was supported by 122 delegates, with only one vote against it. The document also states that Russia must pay compensation for the damage caused to Ukraine’s cultural, historical, and religious heritage. Ukrainian local authorities should actively participate in the work of the Damage Register and in submitting claims for compensation.

The Congress praised the role of local and regional authorities in maintaining the resilience of state institutions and ensuring essential services for the population.

As reported by the Ukrainian MP, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) adopted a resolution urging the recognition of the Russian Orthodox Church as a tool of Russian influence and propaganda.

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