Sunday, October 11, 2009

Zone 3- Microscopic Analysis: ‘Kosovo’s Plight of Recognition- Serbia’s Adamant Stance.’ Week # 87- Dated 27th Sept-3rd Oct 09'

On September 25th Serbia Serbian President Boris Tadic told participants at the 64th UN General Assembly session in New York, that Belgrade will never recognize Kosovo as a sovereign state. Though its decision will not be enforceable, the Hague-based International Court of Justice is set to begin hearings on December 1st, 2009 on the question of Kosovo’s unilateral declaration of idependence last year.

The roots of the Kosovo conflict run deep where both sides quarrel over disputed claims based on historical interpretations. UN led peacekeepers under UNMIK (Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo) authority now have a minor role in the disputed region, since the creation in December 2008, of the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX). In a dispute that has spanned generations the latest development came last year when The Assembly of Kosovo unanimously adopted the declaration of independence on 17 February 2008. However UN Resolution 1244 is still in force, where ultimate responsibility of administration falls on Special Representatives.

So far 62 of the UN's 192 countries and 22 of the 27 EU member states have recognized Kosovo's independence. Serbia however remains adamant in its claims to the disputed constituency.

CHECHNYA Russia, a firm supporter of Serbia is a major hurdle in Kosovo’s recognition by the United Nations. Apart from the Russian interest of hindering the full independence of Kosovo for fear that it may prove a perilous precedent for its Chechen problem, Moscow is championing the Serbian cause, based on historical and ideological significance as a Slavic group.

Turkey, a primary ally for the Kosovo cause, has strong historical and psychological ties with the Albanians. Never the less Turkey has been following a prudent approach, providing its support but towing a neutral line at the same time. In the balance lies its policy towards the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC), a unilaterally declared independent state extant since early 1980s and officially recognized by Turkey alone. On the other hand it fears a precedent being set for northern Iraq, ruled by an autonomous Kurdish administration, and Nagorno-Karabakh, an Armenian enclave inside Azerbaijan that has been under Armenian occupation for more than a decade.

However, at the UN Security Council meeting this year the Turkish ambassador underlined the importance his nation attached to security and stability in the Balkans, taking in context Kosovo's independence and integration in the international community. In the same line he stressed boosting relations with Serbia and its integration in the EU.
List of Countries That
Recognize Kosovo
Post Kosovo’s declaration of independence Serbian aspiration to the EU divided the coalition government in Serbia. Despite apprehensions, Serbia has remained inflexible regarding its stance on Kosovo. Recently the US Vice President Joe Biden on a trip to Belgrade sought better relations with Serbia whilst stressing that the recognition of Kosovo is not a pre condition for Serbian integration in the EU. With renewed optimism Serbia is expected to apply for the EU candidature by the end of this year.

So far Serbia, preconditioned for basic internal reform, seems set on its path to the EU; while Kosovo, having gained recognition from 62 nations so far, continues to seek international support and integration into international bodies.


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Discussion Questions:

· How would you project Kosovo's chances for a favorable ruling in the International Court of Justice regarding its unilateral declaration of independence in Feb. 2008?

· Even though the ICJ ruling is not enforceable, do you think it can bring an end to hostilities in the generations old conflict?

· Despite having gained recognition from a majority of European nations, would Serbian accession to the European Union dash Kosovo’s chances of joining the EU as well?


ttp://www.kosovothanksyou.com
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