International Court of Justice: Kosovo

Director

Johan van Rijn

Moderator

Teddy Collins

Crisis Manager

Branko Backovic

Topic Brief: Click here to download zipped folder

Although the conflict in the region ended over ten years ago, one question still remains: Can Kosovo legally secede from Serbia? That is the question the International Court of Justice must answer. As the primary judicial organ of the United Nations, the ICJ has an obligation to settle legal disputes between states around the globe. The legality of Kosovo’s independence is a complex and nuanced topic and it has repercussions for independence movements throughout the world. As the judges of the ICJ, you will have to come up with a comprehensive and carefully analyzed, unbiased legal decision on the status of Kosovo and whether or not it has the right to secede. But be cautious in your decision. The entire world is looking to you to set a precedent on the legality of secession movements throughout the globe. Note: Highly recommended for delegates with a background in international law.

Copyright 2010, Yale International Relations Association