Genocide denial, revisionism and glorification of war criminals contradict the most fundamental European values and the Ratko Mladic verdict is an opportunity for leaders in BiH and the region to lead the way in honouring victims and promote an environment conducive to reconciliation to overcome the legacies of the war and build lasting peace, EU said following the second instance verdict against the former Bosnian Serb army general.

“The final judgement vs Ratko Mladic before the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) brings to an end a key trial in Europe’s recent history for war crimes, including genocide, which took place in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Remembering those who lost their lives, our deepest sympathies are with their loved ones and those who survived.

The EU expects all political actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in the Western Balkans to demonstrate full cooperation with international tribunals, respect their decisions and acknowledge their independence and impartiality.

Genocide denial, revisionism and glorification of war criminals contradict the most fundamental European values. Today’s decision is an opportunity for leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region, in view of the facts, to lead the way in honouring victims and promote an environment conducive to reconciliation to overcome the legacies of the war and build lasting peace.

This is a prerequisite for the stability and security of Bosnia and Herzegovina and fundamental for its EU path. It is also amongst the 14 key priorities of the Commission Opinion on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU membership application.

International and domestic courts in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in the neighbouring countries need to continue their mission to provide justice for all victims of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, and their family members. There can be no impunity,” the EU said in its statement.

Ratko Mladic, the Bosnian Serb army general, was sentenced to life in prison by the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (MICT), Tuesday, confirming the first instance verdict.