The case of Kosovo is distinct and does not represent a precedent for independence for separatist movements in Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Transdniestria, or Nagorno-Karabakh. This paper examines all five cases, with particular attention given to three factors for analysis: the intractability of each conflict, potential viability of the region as an independent state, and the impact of external influences. The results of this examination are presented in both matrix and narrative form. Overwhelmingly, it is the impact of external influences-the engagement of the international community-which has shaped Kosovo's situation, rendering it fundamentally different from the cases in Russia's near-abroad.

Fear of Persecution offers an absorbing and necessary overview of the plight of internally displaced people (IDPs) and refugees. Every year there are tens of millions of people around the world who have fled or are in flight due to the fear of persecution based upon race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, and who then become invisible. James D. White and Anthony J. Marsella bring together essays that address issues emerging from the current relationship of international law, human rights, and refugee health and well-being. This book discusses and critically analyzes the evolvement of international responses and NGO's, the influence of the East/West cultural binary, and possible frameworks for peace-building efforts. White and Marsella provide a unique interdisciplinary approach to a complex subject, mixing the views of leading academics, policy analysts, senior officials from NGOS, and lawyers to consider the situation from various angles. Fear of Persecution is a compelling and comprehensive text that is sure to stimulate debate among political theorists and those interested in international relations.

Fear of Persecution offers an absorbing and necessary overview of the plight of internally displaced people (IDPs) and refugees. Every year there are tens of millions of people around the world who have fled or are in flight due to the fear of persecution based upon race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, and who then become invisible. James D. White and Anthony J. Marsella bring together essays that address issues emerging from the current relationship of international law, human rights, and refugee health and well-being. This book discusses and critically analyzes the evolvement of international responses and NGO's, the influence of the East/West cultural binary, and possible frameworks for peace-building efforts. White and Marsella provide a unique interdisciplinary approach to a complex subject, mixing the views of leading academics, policy analysts, senior officials from NGOS, and lawyers to consider the situation from various angles. Fear of Persecution is a compelling and comprehensive text that is sure to stimulate debate among political theorists and those interested in international relations.