During 2008, Kosovo independence moved the question of separatism once again to the top of the international agenda. In that sense, this article attempts to decipher the case of Kosovo, by analyzing the theories of secession, statehood and recognition under international law. Particular emphasis is placed upon the following question: the se- cession of Kosovo may establish a precedent for other separatist conflicts and contrib- ute to the destabilization of south-east Europe. In Moldova, the question of separatism is seen as crucial also, that why the case of Kosovo could be examined as illustrative. However, due to factors such as the scale of international investment, security commit- ments, and great power tutelage and recognition, Kosovo just can not be considered as a model for other separatist movements, including the case of Transnistria.