Formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States
December 21st, 1991
December 21st, 1991

How Long Ago?
33 years, 2 months, 22 days ago
Location
Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Boris Yeltsin
- Nursultan Nazarbayev
- Stanislav Shushkevich
- Leonid Kravchuk
Links & References
Tags
Formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States
Leaders from 11 former Soviet republics signed the Alma-Ata Protocol, officially establishing the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). This marked a pivotal change as these nations transitioned from being Soviet republics to independent states in the wake of the Soviet Union's dissolution. The agreement represented a mutual commitment among the states to collaborate on political, economic, and security matters while fostering their sovereignty.
11 republics transitioned to independent states.
CIS aimed at political and economic cooperation.
Protocol signed in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan.
Established amidst the collapse of the Soviet Union.
What Happened?
The signing of the Alma-Ata Protocol represents a significant transition for the post-Soviet states as it formally established the Commonwealth of Independent States. On this day, leaders from 11 out of the 15 former Soviet republics, including Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Belarus, convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan. The protocol underscored their agreement to collaborate on common issues while respecting each nation’s independence and sovereignty. This marked a broad consensus in which the parties recognized the need for cooperation in various sectors, including economics, security, and foreign policy in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
The event came after months of political turmoil in the Soviet Union, leading to its eventual dissolution. The move towards independence emerged out of a desire for self-determination among the republics, many of which were eager to break away from Moscow's control. The protocol not only symbolized the end of the Soviet Union but also set the framework for future relationships between the former states. The leaders acknowledged their will to promote economic ties while ensuring peace and stability in the region, aiming to maintain a cooperative alliance without reverting to central authority from Russia.
The establishment of the CIS would lead to various developments in the political landscape of the region, with subsequent treaties emerging between member states focusing on military and economic collaboration. However, the dynamics within the CIS were complex, as individual republics pursued differing paths of governance and alliances, contributing to varied degrees of cooperation over the years. Understanding these early agreements is crucial to grasping the evolution of post-Soviet space politics.
Why Does it Matter?
The formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States is significant as it marked the official end of the Soviet Union and the birth of independent political entities in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The CIS has played a crucial role in shaping regional politics, facilitating cooperation while also highlighting the complexities of post-Soviet governance, where former allies often pursued divergent paths. The implications of this event have set the stage for the contemporary political landscape in the region.
Discover More Historic Events from December 21st
Mass Shooting at Charles University in Prague
A mass shooting took place at Charles University, Prague, resulting in 14 fatalities and 25 injuries. The attacker, a university student, fatally shot his father before opening fire on his peers. He took his own life shortly after police arrived at the scene, leaving the university community in shock. The motives behind this act of violence remain unclear, stirring discussions on mental health, security on campus, and the factors contributing to such tragedies in educational institutions.
Continue ReadingExtraordinary Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn
On December 21, 2020, Jupiter and Saturn aligned closely in the night sky, appearing just 0.1 degrees apart. This remarkable celestial event marked the closest conjunction of these two planets since 1623 and was visible worldwide. Observers gathered to witness the bright planets appear almost like a single star. The event occurred during the winter solstice, creating a unique spectacle that captivated stargazers and astronomers alike. This conjunction was not only a sight to behold but also held significant meaning in various cultures, tied to themes of hope and renewal.
Continue ReadingCommemoration of B’ak’tun 13 Conclusion
Festivities took place across Mesoamerica to commemorate the conclusion of the b’ak’tun 13 cycle in the Mesoamerican Long Count Calendar. This significant event, believed to cover a span of approximately 5,126 years, drew attention from New Age spiritualists who anticipated various transformative events, including cataclysmic occurrences. Celebrations featured local rituals, music, and community gatherings, emphasizing a reaffirmation of cultural heritage. As people reflected on the passing of this time cycle, there was both a sense of anxiety and hope regarding possible new beginnings.
Continue ReadingDeadly Suicide Bombing at Mosul Airfield
A suicide bomber targeted a forward operating base near Mosul, killing 22 American soldiers and injuring many others. This attack was noted as the deadliest of its kind against U.S. personnel in Iraq, exemplifying the intense challenges faced by U.S. forces during the Iraq War. The attack underscored the persistent threat of insurgent tactics as military operations transitioned into more complex urban warfare settings.
Continue ReadingExplosives Intercepted from ETA in Madrid
Spanish Civil Guard intercepted a van loaded with 950 kg of explosives intended for a terrorist attack on Torre Picasso in Madrid. The operation showcased the ongoing efforts to counter the terrorist group ETA, known for its violent campaign for Basque independence. The explosives were found just in time to prevent a significant catastrophe in one of Madrid's most iconic buildings, underscoring the severity of the threat posed by ETA at the time.
Continue ReadingCubana Flight 1216 Overshoots La Aurora Runway
Cubana de Aviación Flight 1216, a scheduled passenger flight from Havana, Cuba, to Guatemala City, Guatemala, overshot the runway during its landing approach, resulting in a disastrous accident that claimed the lives of 18 individuals. The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas DC-10, failed to stop before reaching the end of the runway, crashing into a nearby area and causing significant casualties among passengers and crew members. Investigations were launched to determine the reasons behind the incident, including potential pilot error, weather conditions, and air traffic control factors.
Continue Reading