The International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT), formerly known as the ICTY in The Hague, has rejected a request by Ratko Mladić for temporary release on humanitarian grounds, citing his deteriorating health condition.
Mladić, the former commander of the Army of Republika Srpska – the Bosnian Serb entity – was sentenced to life in prison in 2021 for genocide and war crimes committed during the Bosnian War.
In the decision signed by the President of the Mechanism, Graciela Gatti Santana, it is stated that although medical reports confirm Mladić is nearing the end of his life, he is receiving comprehensive and adequate medical care, as documented in official records.
“The information available to me indicates that the compelling humanitarian circumstances cited by Mladić as justification for release have not been substantiated,” reads the court’s ruling.
The court emphasized that Mladić is not suffering from an acute or terminal illness that would justify early or temporary release. Furthermore, he is under specialized medical supervision tailored to his condition, and the institution has ensured regular contact with his family.
“His continued detention does not constitute inhuman or degrading treatment and, as such, remains consistent with the fundamental principles of punishment applicable to the crimes for which he was convicted,” the decision states.
On June 2, through his legal team, Mladić had filed for temporary or early release, claiming he was diagnosed with a terminal illness and had only months to live. His lawyers argued there was no flight risk due to his condition and that he would remain in Serbia if released.
Ratko Mladić evaded justice for almost 16 years before being arrested in Serbia in May 2011 and extradited to The Hague six days later.
He was found guilty of genocide against nearly 8,000 Bosniaks in Srebrenica – a UN-protected area – in July 1995, as well as persecution, forced displacement, and terrorizing civilians during the siege of Sarajevo, along with taking UN peacekeepers hostage during NATO airstrikes in 1995.
He was convicted on 10 of 11 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Reported by REL.
