Hague examines Kosovo’s independence

The International Court of Justice in The Hague is examining Kosovo's declaration of independence. Serbian and Kosovar officials have given evidence both for and against Kosovo's declaration.

Russia submitted its report on Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence to the International Court of Justice on Thursday.

The report states that the independence proclaimed by Kosovo on February 17, 2008 from Serbia ‘contradicts international law, including the provisions of the UN Security Council Resolution 1244 adopted in 1999’.

All countries have to submit their view on Kosovo's independence by July 17. The Hague will then schedule a debate and make a ruling on the legality of the move.

Kosovo’s independent status has not been recognized by the UN General Assembly, which means it does not yet have the status of a sovereign state.

Some experts say its actions could set a precedent for other disputed territories around the world.