In 1980, El Salvador and Honduras formalized an agreement to address their contentious border dispute through the International Court of Justice. This move was significant given the historical context of the Football War, a brief but intense conflict in 1969 that stemmed from social discord and national rivalry linked to soccer matches. The war highlighted the deep-seated issues related to land and nationality that plagued the two countries. The 1969 conflict resulted in considerable loss of life and property, emphasizing the urgent need for a structured resolution to territorial disputes.

The decision to take the matter before the International Court of Justice was influenced by both international pressure and a change in political attitudes in the region. By seeking a legal solution, both countries aimed to avoid future hostilities and foster bilateral cooperation. This step indicated a broader trend in Central America during the 1980s, where countries were encouraged to resolve disputes peacefully, in part to curb the rising influence of foreign intervention in regional affairs.

The agreement also signified a commitment to diplomatic negotiation rather than military conflict, reflecting a new era of engagement and dialogue in international relations among Central American nations. The early 1980s were marked by various conflicts in the region, and this resolution was seen as a hopeful indication of the effectiveness of legal and diplomatic tools in managing disputes among nations that had a turbulent history.