The International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals has rejected a request from Ratko Mladić, convicted to life imprisonment for genocide in Srebrenica and other war crimes committed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, for early release due to deteriorating health, stating that there is no additional treatment available anywhere that is not available to him in the Netherlands.

In the decision by President Graciela Gati Santana, it is stated that Mladić is in the final stage of his life, but that the conditions in the United Nations Detention Unit and the prison hospital are of such high quality that comfort can be ensured to the greatest possible extent, without the detention regime worsening the situation in a way that would result in inhuman or degrading treatment.

Receives Comprehensive Care

- 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, is primarily a result of chronic and multiple illnesses, which differs from acute terminal illness with faster progression - the decision states.

Gati Santana noted that for Mladić, preserving his dignity and fundamental rights, including creating sufficient opportunities for him 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 - said the President of the Mechanism.

Frequent Contact with Family

She also added that Mladić's current care in the prison hospital builds on years of effective and adaptive treatment of his numerous and complex health problems.

- He enjoys an exceptional visiting 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 states.

Mladić, former commander of the Army of Republika Srpska (VRS), was sentenced to life imprisonment in June 2021 for genocide in Srebrenica, persecution of Bosniaks and Croats, terrorizing Sarajevo civilians and taking UNPROFOR members as hostages.

Mladić's defense has previously requested his release on health grounds, but their requests have been denied.