Montenegro's formal declaration of independence occurred after a referendum held on May 21, 2006, where approximately 55.5% of the electorate voted in favor of secession from the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. This decision marked the culmination of a long-standing aspiration for independence that had been brewing since the dissolution of Yugoslavia in the 1990s. During the referendum, Montenegro's leadership, primarily the Democratic Party of Socialists led by Milo Đukanović, campaigned vigorously for a pro-independence vote, emphasizing national identity and self-determination. The initial results triggered a wave of celebrations in the capital city of Podgorica and various towns across Montenegro, as citizens reveled in their newfound freedom.

On June 3, the Montenegrin Parliament adopted a formal declaration of independence, which was subsequently recognized by the international community, including the European Union. Montenegro's independence was a significant geopolitical shift in the Balkan region, as it marked the first split of a state formed after the breakup of Yugoslavia. As a result of this declaration, Montenegro became a sovereign state, separate from Serbia, which eventually began its own path towards consolidation. The move to independence also illuminated deep nationalistic sentiments and differing cultural identities between Serbians and Montenegrins, which had been simmering for decades.

The independence had significant implications for regional stability and international relations, with Montenegro becoming an independent member of the United Nations soon after. The separatist sentiments were both a response to and a catalyst for broader discussions about national identity in the Balkans, leading to ongoing debates about statehood, autonomy, and international recognition.