Microservices principles refer to the foundational concepts that guide the design and implementation of microservices architecture. This architectural style breaks down applications into small, independent services that can be developed, deployed, and scaled independently. Key principles include single responsibility, where each service focuses on a specific business function, and autonomy, allowing services to operate independently without relying on others. Additionally, microservices promote decentralized data management and continuous delivery, enhancing flexibility and resilience in software development. Understanding these principles is crucial for building robust, scalable applications that can adapt to changing business needs.