European practice on the recognition of states

Reflects on the shortcomings and uncertain implementation of the EU guidelines on the recognition of new states. Examines the innovative guidelines produced by the EU as a result of the dissolution of Yugoslavia and the Soviet Union, evaluates their application in relation to Bosnia, Macedonia and Kosovo, and explains why the EU divisions and lack of solidarity surrounding the recognition of Kosovo are significant. Discusses the benefits of formulating new and coherent policy guidelines on recognition, and the issues these should cover.