Natasha Kandić, founder of the Humanitarian Law Center, has strongly criticized Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s decision to grant state honors to Ratko Mladić, who was convicted of genocide and serious war crimes.
Kandić said that covering Mladić’s coffin with the Serbian flag after his remains were brought to Belgrade is an indication that the Serbian authorities have undermined institutions and dealt a blow to hopes for the country’s future.
“This Serbian president, by organizing this funeral and granting state honors to Ratko Mladić, who was convicted of genocide, is showing that he has made no departure from his radical past and that he is harming the state and all the citizens of this country. Serbia is home to citizens of different nationalities,” she said.
“Vučić continuously encourages and reinforces extreme nationalism. What we have seen so far is that there have been no young people protesting in the streets, but it remains to be seen what the situation will be today and on Monday as well. After that, we will have a final assessment of where this country stands and what Aleksandar Vučić and his administration have achieved. Ultimately, Serbia will not be the same after this event—after this moral, political, and civilizational degradation.”
Kandić also criticized the potential impact of the situation on Serbia’s relations with neighboring countries. She said that the honors given to Mladić represent a clear position toward the victims and the countries affected by the crimes for which he was convicted.
“By deciding to grant state honors to Mladić, the Serbian president has clearly demonstrated his position toward neighboring countries and toward the victims, for whom this convicted general bears responsibility. After this terrible disgrace, he has closed the door to communication and cooperation—not only for the government, but has placed all citizens in a situation where it is now difficult for anyone to communicate with their neighbors.”
