16 years from International Court for Kosovo Independence ruling

With ten votes to and four against, the International Court of Justice judges decided on July 22nd 2010 in Kosovo's favour, rejecting Serbia's claims that the declaration of independence was contrary to international law.

The decision was read by the then president of the Court, Hisashi Owada, who declared that the “adoption of the February 17th 2008 declaration of independence has not violated general international law”.

The process at the JND had started after Serbia's request, which through the UN General Assembly, asked an advisory opinion on the legality of Kosovo's declaration of independence.

The Court's opinion was considered an important legal and diplomatic victory for Kosovo, as it confirmed that international law does not prohibit declarations of independence. After that decision, a number of states recognised the Republic of Kosovo.

Kosovo declared independence on February 17th 2008. So far, the Republic of Kosovo has been recognised by 118 states, while continuing its membership efforts in international organisations and expanding international recognitions.

The July 22nd 2010 decision remains one of the most important moments in Kosovo's judiciary and statehood, serving as the key reference to protecting the legitimacy of its independence in the international arena.