The European Court of Human Rights ruled that Serbia failed to carry out an effective investigation into the murder of P. Đ., leading to damages awarded to his son in a legal case.
The European Court of Human Rights unanimously ruled that Serbia did not carry out an effective official investigation into the murder of P. Đ., the father of Vilko Đaković, who filed the complaint. P. Đ. was killed during the Serbian aggression in the village of Lovas, prompting several criminal proceedings in Serbia. As a result of the ruling, Đaković was awarded €12,000 in non-material damages and €1,730 for legal costs. This case highlights significant issues regarding accountability and justice for war crimes committed during the conflicts following the breakup of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.
The murder of P. Đ. took place on October 10, 1991, amidst a violent conflict that arose from ethnic tensions in the region. P. Đ. was shot by a group consisting of volunteers, local police members, and territorial defense forces, acting under the command of D.L., a commander in the Yugoslav People's Army. The case has drawn attention to the broader context of human rights violations during the war, including forced displacements and other atrocities, and the delayed or ineffective legal responses in seeking justice for victims.
This ruling from the European Court underscores the obligation of states to investigate war crimes thoroughly and impartially, and highlights the challenges faced in achieving justice for victims of the Yugoslav wars. The decision is significant not only for the victim's family but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for justice and accountability in the region, as similar cases continue to emerge years after the conflicts have ended.
