In October 1991, amid the disintegration of the Soviet Union, the Supreme Council of Azerbaijan adopted a declaration of independence. This decision was driven by a growing wave of nationalism that swept across various Soviet republics, as ethnic groups sought to reclaim their sovereignty. Azerbaijan, nestled in the South Caucasus, had a complex history of governance, marked by centuries of foreign rule that shaped its national identity.

The declaration was preceded by significant political upheaval and protests that emphasized the desire for self-determination among Azerbaijanis. The tumultuous environment included a backdrop of internal strife and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, where ethnic Armenians sought independence from Azerbaijan. The newly formed government, led by President Ayaz Mutalibov, faced immediate challenges, including economic instability and the need to establish international recognition.

As the Supreme Council convened, the declaration emphasized the country's right to self-governance and sought to dismantle the remaining vestiges of Soviet control. This move not only resonated with the nostalgic longing for independence but also marked a critical juncture in Azerbaijan's history, providing a framework for future governance and international relations, allowing Azerbaijan to seek membership in various international organizations and establish bilateral relations with other nations.