War criminal Mladic’s defence requests urgent release due to terminal illness

The request states that medical staff at the UN Detention Unit (UNDU) informed Mladic and his family that curative treatment is no longer possible and that he has been transferred to palliative care. Discussions are reportedly underway with Mladic about end-of-life decisions, including a do-not-resuscitate order.

The defence argues that continuing Mladić’s detention under these circumstances constitutes cruel and inhumane treatment and a violation of fundamental human rights, citing similar cases from the Hague Tribunal and other international and national courts. As precedent, they reference the case of Ljubiša Beara, who was granted release in 2017 due to a terminal illness and limited remaining lifespan.

The defence further argues that, given Mladic’s current physical condition, he poses no risk of flight or threat to witnesses and victims, and that release would enable more appropriate medical care and the support of his family. They note that Serbia has reportedly expressed its readiness to accept Mladic should his release be granted.

The motion references reports by UNDU medical staff indicating that since March 2024, Mladic has suffered at least three “potentially life-threatening” health incidents. His condition is reportedly deteriorating, and he is currently hospitalised within the detention facility and is physically immobile.

The defence concludes that continued imprisonment under these conditions would be inhumane and calls on the MICT President to issue an urgent ruling on the matter.

Ratko Mladic was convicted in 2021 and sentenced to life in prison for the genocide in Srebrenica, crimes against humanity, and violations of the laws and customs of war committed during the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina.