According to Radio Netherlands (Published: Wednesday 08 October 2008 18:10 UTC, Last updated: Thursday 09 October 2008 09:39 UTC), the International Court of Justice in The Hague is to rule on whether Kosovo’s declaration of independence earlier this year was legal. The United Nations General Assembly referred the case to the court on Wednesday.

Picture: Kosovo-99, Night in Pristina, by M. Kerjman

The UN’s decision represents a victory for Serbia which was pressing for the court to investigate the legality of Kosovo’s move. Serbia argues that stability in the region will be served by clarification of Kosovo’s status. Supporters of Kosovan independence counter that Serbia is simply attempting to delay the process of recognition for Kosovo. The court in The Hague is expected to take up to two years to consider the issue.

In the General Assembly, 77 countries voted for the court to take up the case, six voted against and no less than 74 abstained. Most European countries were among the abstentions.