Thursday, July 22, 2010

ICJ and Kosovo: Modest Decision with Modest Impact?

See Bieber's analysis of the decision
The ruling is far from revolutionary and does not set a precedent in international law: It is clear that declarations of independence are not illegal–their relevance arises from recognition. Whether or not recognition of declarations of independence break international law appears to be a question to be answered another time.
Of course, that leads to the next question--when is recognition illegal?  Good luck with that one.

See yesterday's post for my predictions of how folks will react.  The key is that it will depend on domestic interests but not vulnerability to secession--as countries that are vulnerable to secession are not deterred--namely, Russia.

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