UN Security Council Backs Moroccan Sovereignty in Western Sahara Dispute
The United Nations Security Council has adopted a resolution supporting Morocco's claim to sovereignty over Western Sahara, a territory that has been the subject of international legal disputes for decades. The resolution, spearheaded by the United States, reinforces Morocco's proposed autonomy plan as the foundation for negotiations among the involved parties.
The resolution saw approval from eleven of the Council's member states. Russia, China, and Pakistan abstained, while Algeria, a principal supporter of the Polisario Front, did not participate in the vote. This development marks a significant diplomatic endorsement for Morocco's stance regarding the resource-rich region situated in northwest Africa.
Western Sahara, a territory with an area comparable to that of the United Kingdom, was formerly a Spanish colony until 1975. Following Spain's withdrawal, Morocco annexed large portions of the sparsely populated land, establishing control over much of the region. The Polisario Front, supported by Algeria, has since contested Moroccan authority, seeking the establishment of an independent state in Western Sahara. Sporadic hostilities have occurred between Polisario forces and the Moroccan military over the years.
The resolution now positions Morocco's autonomy initiative--first presented in 2007--as the principal framework for future discussions. This plan proposes self-governance for Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty. The Security Council's decision calls upon all parties to engage in negotiations without preconditions, emphasizing the need to reach a lasting and mutually acceptable political settlement that respects the right of the people of Western Sahara to self-determination.
Internationally, Morocco's claim to the territory has received support from countries such as the United States, Israel, and France, as well as an increasing number of African nations. These countries have recognized Morocco's sovereignty or have publicly backed the autonomy proposal as a practical means to resolve the stalemate.
The Polisario Front and Algeria, however, remain opposed to the resolution, arguing that it falls short of fulfilling the aspirations of the Western Sahara population for independence. Algeria has maintained its support for the Polisario Front, which has advocated for self-determination for more than half a century.
In addition to the sovereignty issue, the Security Council's resolution also extends the mandate of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara by one year. This mission, active for over 30 years, includes several hundred military and civilian personnel tasked with monitoring ceasefire agreements and supporting peace efforts in the territory.
The latest move by the Security Council is regarded as the strongest expression of support to date for Morocco's approach to resolving the Western Sahara conflict. It underscores the international community's growing preference for a negotiated solution based on autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, rather than full independence for the territory. The decision is expected to influence future diplomatic engagements and shape the trajectory of negotiations among all stakeholders involved in the dispute.