On January 16, 2025, representatives from the Ukraine Legal Network, a project of the Nuhanovic Foundation, delivered a lecture at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU). The presentation focused on the role of NGOs in reparative justice, emphasizing the importance of ensuring victims actively participate in all processes related to justice restoration and holding perpetrators accountable.
The event was hosted by Dr Mijke de Waardt, researcher at NSRC & Assistant professor at VU.Olesia Zaiets, Project Officer at ULN and Frederiek de Vlaming, PhD, a criminologist, founder of Syria Legal Network, and senior adviser at The Nuhanovic Foundation and Ukraine Legal Network, outlined judicial and non-judicial processes for addressing the harm experienced by victims of war crimes. They explored victim perspectives, the establishment of a compensation mechanism, and the importance of both recognition and accountability in justice processes.
Olesia Zaiets, a Ukrainian lawyer, emphasised that victims’ needs, emotions, and participation must remain at the centre of any redress efforts. She highlighted ULN’s efforts to raise awareness about victim rights and provide legal and practical support to Ukrainians displaced by the war. Key initiatives include the Survivor Support Centre, which offers assistance for victims navigating legal and administrative challenges.
The discussion also examined the role of The Nuhanovic Foundation, ULN’s parent organisation, which has a more than decade long history of supporting litigation in international crimes and raising awareness about victims’ rights. De Vlaming elaborated on the Foundation’s legacy, its efforts to address gaps in international and domestic legal frameworks, and its collaboration with communities impacted by war crimes in Palestine, Syria, Iraq, and now Ukraine.Attendees were also introduced to judicial approaches, including international courts such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), and non-judicial mechanisms like the recently established compensation framework under the Council of Europe — the Register of Damage for Ukraine. These mechanisms provide avenues for victims to seek justice, recognition, and reparations despite ongoing challenges.
The session provided students and participants with a deeper understanding of transitional justice, the significance of victim-centred strategies, and ULN’s work in advocating for accountability and support for Ukrainian survivors.For more information on Ukraine Legal Network’s initiatives, visit our website or follow our social media channels.
