BiH Court delivers first verdict for genocide denial

Pavlovic was convicted for placing a banner on March 10, 2023, above a traffic light intersection in Bratunac, bearing the image of former Army of Republika Srpska commander and convicted war criminal Ratko Mladic, with the message: “Happy birthday, may you live long and healthy,” reports Detektor.

The verdict states that Pavlovic, as president of the association “Eastern Alternative” and a resident of Bratunac, was aware that his action glorified Ratko Mladic, who was convicted by an international court for genocide and other war crimes.

He was also found guilty of approving and attempting to justify the genocide in Srebrenica by organizing a gathering in Bratunac on July 11, 2023. For that event, he created posters that read: “11 July – Day of the Liberation of Srebrenica; Thank you Army of Republika Srpska.” He posted the posters throughout the Bratunac municipality, which borders Srebrenica.

By court order, Pavlovic is also required to reimburse court costs.

Neither Pavlovic nor his defense attorney were present for the pronouncement of the verdict.

Two indictments had been filed against Pavlovic, and the cases were merged in August last year.

His trial began on April 1 of last year.

This verdict is subject to appeal before the Appellate Chamber of the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina.