The Helsinki Accords were significant in Cold War politics as they marked a pivotal moment for East-West relations. Signed in 1975 by 35 nations, including the US and Soviet Union, they aimed to improve diplomatic ties. The accords emphasized respect for human rights, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, setting a framework for dialogue. They contributed to the eventual easing of tensions, fostering greater cooperation in various domains, including cultural and economic exchanges. The human rights commitments sparked dissident movements in Eastern Europe, ultimately playing a role in the collapse of communist regimes by the late 1980s.