War criminal remains behind bars: Ratko Mladić's request for early release denied

(Patria) - War criminal Ratko Mladić remains behind bars!

The International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Courts has denied the request of this convict to life imprisonment for genocide in Srebrenica and other crimes committed in Bosnia and Herzegovina for early release due to his deteriorating health condition.

The Mechanism justified such a decision by claiming that there is no additional treatment available anywhere that is not available to him in the Netherlands.

The decision of President Graciela Gatti Santana states that Mladić is in the final stage of his life, but that the conditions in the UN Detention Unit and the prison hospital are of such high quality that he can be provided with the greatest possible comfort, without the detention regime worsening his situation in a way that would result in inhuman or degrading treatment.

"There is no additional treatment available elsewhere that is not available in the Netherlands. Finally, Mladić's condition, although very serious, is deteriorating and approaching death, and is mostly the result of chronic and multiple diseases, which differs from acute terminal illness with faster progression," the decision reads.

Gatti Santana points out that for Mladić, preserving his dignity and fundamental rights, including creating sufficient opportunities to be surrounded by family and friends, according to the information currently available to her, does not require his release.

"On the contrary, Mladić continues to receive comprehensive and compassionate care, including assistance with all daily activities, from qualified doctors, including medical experts, medical staff, and prison staff," states Gatti Santana.

She emphasizes that Mladić's current care in the prison hospital builds upon years of effective and adaptable treatment of his numerous and complex health problems.

"He benefits from an exceptional visitation regime, which allows frequent contact with friends and family, including the possibility for family members to be with him in his final moments," the decision adds.

Ratko Mladić, former commander of the Army of Republika Srpska, was definitively sentenced to life imprisonment in June 2021 for genocide in Srebrenica, persecution of Bosniaks and Croats, terrorizing the citizens of Sarajevo, and taking UNPROFOR members hostage.

Mladić's defense had previously requested his release for health reasons, but their requests were denied.