Independence was the state or quality of being independent, or "freedom from the control, influence, support, aid, or the like, of others".
The planet Krios was a Klingon colony on the border of Federation space. In 2367, the Kriosians sought independence from the Empire. According to Klingon Ambassador Kell, "There was a time when the Empire would crush a rebellion. Now it is tolerated. We have enough problems on the home planet. We don't wish to divert resources to such a trivial war." When asked if the Empire considered granting them independence, Kell responded, "Perhaps. We'll conquer them again later, if we wish." (TNG: "The Mind's Eye")