There is legitimate precedent.  Kosovo became formally independent from Serbia in 2008 [1] and Montenegro became independent from Serbia in 2006 [2] as a result of referenda within those territories. If these states and the many, many others which previously achieved independence have a right to self-determination why doesn’t RS? To deny some groups of people access to self-determination is hypocritical and unjust.  [1] BBC News, ‘Kosovo MPs proclaim independence’, 17 February 2008,   [2] BBC News, ‘Montenegro declares independence’, 4 June 2006,