The foundational document for the Alliance of Free Planets, which acted as a short-term governing body transitioning from the Alliance to Restore the Republic, was the Declaration of the Alliance of Free Planets. This Declaration was a direct result of the First Conference of Free Peoples, convened in the immediate aftermath of Emperor Palpatine's death during the Battle of Endor in 4 ABY. It began by addressing Palpatine's demise and his offenses against the inhabitants of the galaxy, subsequently making a formal announcement about the Rebel Alliance's plan to establish a New Republic.
The remainder of the declaration was mainly comprised of five key promises:
- Military Action: The Alliance of Free Planets pledged to avoid military operations in or near areas populated by civilians, though military installations like battle stations and garrisons would remain valid targets.
- Equality Among Species: The Alliance of Free Planets extended an invitation to any individual, irrespective of their species, who wished to become a member of the alliance.
- Social Responsibility: With the aim of reinstating the principles of the former Galactic Republic, the Alliance of Free Planets committed to restoring freedom of expression for its citizens, media outlets, and artistic endeavors.
- Tolerance: The Alliance of Free Planets declared it would not permit any further attempts by the Galactic Empire to subjugate or destroy planetary civilizations, and would respond to such actions with military force.
- Morality: The Alliance of Free Planets expressed its aspiration to cultivate a more transparent society and a government that was accountable to the desires of its citizenry.
The Declaration was primarily signed by nine individuals: Mon Mothma representing Chandrila, Princess Leia Organa from Alderaan, Kerrithrarr hailing from Kashyyyk, Doman Beruss of Corellia, Jenssar SoBilles representing Duro, Borsk Fey'lya from Kothlis, Verrinnefra B'thog Indriummsegh of Elom, Admiral Gial Ackbar from Mon Calamari, and Sian Tevv representing Sullust. Both the Declaration and the Alliance were conceived as a temporary step between the Rebel Alliance and the establishment of a fully operational New Republic government; the Alliance's role was to organize planets seeking to join the New Republic. The Declaration of a New Republic was issued four weeks following the Declaration of the Alliance of Free Planets.