By Roy Lie Atjam
The Hague, July 3, 2025 – The Embassy of Kosovo, in partnership with the Asser Institute (Centre for International & European Law), proudly convened an engaging academic conference to celebrate the momentous 15th anniversary of the International Court of Justice’s pivotal advisory opinion on Kosovo’s declaration of independence.
The panel discussion explored the legal reasoning behind the ICJ’s Advisory Opinion and its meaning for international law, the Opinion’s impact on contemporary international relations and state building, and it contributed to unfolding the role of international legal mechanisms in the resolution of disputes.
The conference was followed by a reception, offering a valuable opportunity for networking and further discussions.
The programme included welcoming remarks by Ambassador Dren Doli, Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to the Kingdom of the Netherlands; and a panel discussion moderated by Dr Machiko Kanetake, Academic Director of the Asser Institute, featuring the expertise of the following guest speakers:
- H. E. Pieter Faith, former Dutch diplomat serving as the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) and as the International Civilian Representative in Kosovo;
- Sir Michael Wood, Barrister at Twenty Essex, London and Honorary Fellow of the Lauterpacht Centre for International Law at the University of Cambridge;
- Dr. Daniel Muller, Founding partner of FAR Avocats;
- Dr. Vjosa Musliu, Associate Professor of International Relations at the VUB;
- Prof. Dr. Jure Vidmar, Chair of Public International Law at Maastricht University;
- Prof. Dr. Qerim Qerimi, Professor at the Faculty of Law of the University of Pristina in Kosovo and Vice Rector of the University.
Final remarks were given by Dr Kushtrim Istrefi, Associate Professor of Human Rights Law and Public International Law at Utrecht University and substitute member of the Venice Commission.
The conference successfully united members of the diplomatic community, academics, international law experts, and emerging researchers.
It culminated in an engaging networking reception that invited participants to delve deeper into the profound insights and themes illuminated during the panel discussions, fostering meaningful connections and inspiring dialogue.
