It is with deep sadness that we mark the passing of Mischa Wladimiroff, a towering figure in international criminal law and a driving force behind the establishment of the European Criminal Bar Association (ECBA).

Mischa Wladimiroff’s influence reached far beyond national borders. Beginning his legal career in the Netherlands, he soon emerged as a leading voice in the field of criminal defense.
His commitment to high professional standards was evident not only in his courtroom advocacy, but also in his leadership within the Dutch legal community, including as chair of the national bar’s criminal law committee.

His international work was equally significant. As defense counsel in the first case before the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, he helped to shape the early development of international criminal procedure.He maintained strong connections with lawyers and institutions across Europe and beyond, always championing the rights of the defense.

In the mid-1990s, Mischa played a pivotal role in the founding of the ECBA. At a time when procedural safeguards for defendants were increasingly under threat, he recognized — together with Rock Tansey QC, Dean Spielmann and Franz Salditt — the urgent need for a European platform for defense lawyers. These four figures are rightly regarded as the inspiration behind the ECBA. Through regular meetings, including those hosted at Rock Tansey QC’s chambers, they laid the foundation for what would become a leading association in European criminal justice, and were soon joined by further colleagues. Mischa’s vision, organizational strength, and determination ensured that the ECBA was not only established, but quickly became a respected and influential voice. He was instrumental in drafting the association’s constitution and securing its formal foundation.

Beyond his contributions to advocacy and institutional development, Mischa was also a committed educator. Through his participation in training programs and professional development sessions, he inspired a generation of lawyers with his clarity, precision, and firm belief in the role of defense counsel as dominus litis — fully responsible and independent within the criminal process.

Mischa Wladimiroff leaves behind a legacy of principled advocacy, international collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to justice. He will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by colleagues and friends across Europe and around the world.