EU Commissioner Condemns Glorification of War Criminal Mladić, Calls on Serbia to Reconcile

European Commissioner Marta Kos told the European Parliament that honoring war criminals, denying genocide, and historical revisionism do not align with European Union values. She specifically condemned the attendance of Serbian officials and politicians from Republika Srpska at war criminal Ratko Mladić's funeral. Kos stressed that the EU supports all victims of war crimes. She said that Western Balkan stability is vital for Europe, and Serbia has a central role.

Serbia committed to EU standards when applying for membership. Kos stated that glorifying war criminals and denying genocide are fundamentally incompatible with these values. She recalled visiting Srebrenica, where more genocide victims were buried. It is unacceptable to celebrate those responsible for such crimes. Kos found the videos and photos from Mladić's funeral deeply upsetting, calling them a failure to confront the past. Seeing Serbian ministers and leaders from Republika Srpska at the funeral was particularly troubling.

The European Commission urges Serbian authorities and regional political actors to foster reconciliation. They should not let the past hinder future progress. Kos noted that many Serbian citizens reject the glorification of war criminals. She believes Serbia's people want their country to be democratic and European. Kos emphasized that the EU cannot compromise on the dignity of genocide victims. The EU expects Serbia to honestly face its history, including its dark chapters. The Commission will continue supporting Serbia's journey towards EU membership.