The UN International Court of Justice has issued a non-binding ruling that Kosovo's declaration of independence in 2008 was not in violation of international law. This finding, which was in response to Serbia's claim that the declaration of independence was a "flagrant violation" of its territorial integrity, could have significant consequences for regions seeking greater autonomy around the world. Many western states including the US recognized the 2008 declaration of independence, with Serbia and its ally Russia rejecting it.
Following the ruling, Serbia has now submitted a draft resolution to the UN General Assembly stating that "unilateral secession cannot be an acceptable way of resolving territorial issues". The statement further calls on "all the parties involved to find a mutually accepted solution . . . through peaceful dialogue in the interest of peace, security and co-operation in the region".
To view the Advisory Opinion of the ICJ from 22 July 2010, finding the declaration of independence of Kosovo adopted in 2008 to not violate international law, please follow this link.