In this letter, REDRESS requests the UK government to engage civil society including victim and survivor groups on the repurposing of £2.5 billion (‘the funds’) following Roman Abramovich’s sale of Chelsea Football Club. It is reported that the funds will be forfeited to the UK government and earmarked for a charitable foundation to aid victims of the war in Ukraine. This presents a unique opportunity for the UK to have a profound impact on the lives of victims, ensuring their right to reparations is upheld. It will position the UK as a world leader on the repurposing of Russian assets to support victims.
