ABKHAZIA, KOSOVO AND THE RIGHT TO EXTERNAL SELF-DETERMINATION OF PEOPLES.

The article focuses on the right to external self-determination as it applies to Abkhazia and Kosovo. The concept of external self-determination is differentiated from internal self-determination. The legal foundations of external self-determination are examined through international treaties and customary international law. The impact of the declaration of independence by Kosovo in February 2008 on international law is examined in relation to the secession of Abkhazia from Georgia. The parallels between Kosovo and Abkhaz are discussed.