Ratko Mladić, the ‘Butcher of Bosnia’, given hero’s funeral in Serbia
The funeral of Ratko Mladić, convicted of genocide, has drawn thousands of mourners in Belgrade, sparking international condemnation. The event highlights the ongoing political tension in Serbia regarding its historical legacy and its stalled path toward European Union membership.
Why it matters
The glorification of a convicted war criminal by state-supported figures complicates Serbia's diplomatic relations and its integration into Western political institutions.
Ratko Mladić remained a beloved figure to many Serbians. Ratko Mladić remained a beloved figure to many Serbians. Serbia Ratko Mladić, the ‘Butcher of Bosnia’, given hero’s funeral in Serbia Fanfare at Belgrade funeral of man convicted of genocide raises questions for Serbia’s EU membership plan
Prefer the Guardian on Google Thousands of mourners have gathered in Belgrade for the funeral of Ratko Mladić , a Serbian general convicted of orchestrating the worst massacre in Europe since the second world war, and whose hero’s return home has raised international alarm.
Mladić remained a beloved figure among many Serbians, including politicians, and his coffin was flown to Serbia on a government plane, draped in national flags and carried from the plane by uniformed soldiers. As his casket was driven from the airport, men gathered by roads and displayed banners honouring Mladić.
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