UN Kosovo report citing rights progress could open door to independence News
UN Kosovo report citing rights progress could open door to independence

[JURIST] In a version of a report to be released next Tuesday, Kosovo UN Governor Soren Jessen-Petersen [official website] indicates "significant progress" in security and in the area of minority rights under the Kosovo Standards Implementation Plan [PDF]. Under the "standards before status policy," unveiled in 2003, satisfaction of these requirements would be the first step in permitting the West to commence talks with Kosovo regarding its potential independence from Serbia. Official presentation of the report is scheduled for May, 27 2005. Once presented, the Security Council must endorse it in order for Secretary-General Kofi Annan to appoint a special envoy in June or July to make a comprehensive review of Kosovo's progress. Reuters has more.

THIS DAY @ LAW

38 Santee Sioux hanged by US for rebellion

On December 26, 1862, 38 Santee Sioux men were hanged in a mass execution for their roles in a rebellion against US authorities in Minnesota which left hundreds dead and made refugees of some 40,000 white settlers. Government annuities promised under a treaty with the Sioux had failed to arrive on schedule and credit for purchases was not advanced in the meantime, threatening the tribe with starvation. The Santee Sioux Tribe's members were deported first to South Dakota and ultimately to Nebraska, where they remain today. Learn more about the 1862 Minnesota Sioux Rebellion.

Louis XVI put on trial during French Revolution

On December 26, 1792, Romain de Sèze, a defense attorney for deposed King Louis XVI, presented a defense of his client. The former King was on trial before a French Revolutionary court on thirty-three charges, including treason and other crimes against the state. He was convicted on January 15, 1793 executed by guillotine on the following January 21.