Precedents, like beauty, are in the eye of the beholder. Kosovo’s declaration of independence explicitly states, “Kosovo is a special case arising from Yugoslavia’s non-consensual breakup and is not a precedent for any other situation.”
Fine words but meaningless should sentiment flow toward separatism in Quebec at some point in the future.
The non-precedent example was done outside the framework of the United Nations. In fact it broke a United Nations Security Council Resolution.
Canada’s recognition of Kosovo’s unilateral declaration of independence is of no direct value to Canada. It is a potential threat for it has been, and will be, cited as an example by separatists.
Should the Serb minority within Kosovo seek to join their lands with Serbia, it is in Canada’s interest to support this. Just as the current acceptance of Kosovo’s unilateral declaration provides a precedent for unilateral declaration of the Province of Quebec from Canada, so, should such ever occur, recognition of Serb inhabited territory joining Serbia would provide example for English-speaking parts of Quebec to remain part of Canada.
It is in Canada’s long-term interest to have this “example” to cite against those who seek to have all of the Province of Quebec become an independent nation state should they rise to positions of power in the future.
Joe Hueglin
Mouland Avenue
Niagara Falls
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