Introduction -- Part I Self-Determination and Secession Versus Territorial Integrity in International Law: The Recognition of the Right to Self-Determination in International Law -- The Right to Self-Determination and Unilateral Secession -- Part II The Independence of Kosovo and Crimea in the Light of Contemporary International Law: Kosovo's Long Road to Independence in 2008 -- The Crimea's Declaration of Independence and Annexation to Russia in 2014 -- The Legality of the Secessions of Kosovo and Crimea -- Part III The Emergence of Humanitarian Secession as a Response to Humanitarian Crises: The International Community Faced with Illegal Secessions by Sub-State Units -- The Emergence of Humanitarian Secession as an International Response to Serious Violations of Human Rights -- Conclusion.

This book addresses questions in connection with the international legal regime on demands for secession, which have arisen in various States. More specifically, it examines the unilateral declarations of independence by Kosovo in 2008, and by Crimea and its subsequent annexation by the Russian Federation in 2014.  The work investigates the two cases so as to shed light on the international legal regime affecting entities that are smaller than a sovereign State. It analyzes the relevant principles of international law, the intention being to determine their scope and review them in light of the most recent practice and developments in international law.  In turn, the book examines and explains the events of relevance for international law that occurred in the changing situations in Kosovo and Crimea. On the basis of these legal considerations, it explores how the international community can respond when faced with situations that may violate international law, together with the effectiveness of various measures. It also discusses whether certain situations might be legitimate as a concept could now be emerging that secession may be justified in specific circumstances, such as serious and widespread violations of basic human rights.

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