UN Security Council Supports Moroccan Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara
On Friday, the UN Security Council voted on a draft resolution concerning the Western Sahara, a move that signals increasing international support for Morocco’s proposal. This proposal suggests granting the region autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. Washington views this as the sole realistic solution to a decades-long conflict.
Key Decisions and Implications
The resolution, which was voted on by the Security Council, acknowledges the Moroccan autonomy proposal presented to the UN in 2007. This proposal is considered a practical and lasting solution to the ongoing dispute. It allows the region to have its own legislative, executive, and judicial authorities, while Rabat retains control over sovereign matters, including defense, foreign affairs, and religious affairs.
The vote followed a postponement of the session initially scheduled for Thursday, which was related to extending the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). This mandate is set to officially expire on Friday.
Differing Perspectives and Future Steps
The Polisario Front, supported by Algeria, continues to advocate for a self-determination referendum, including the option of independence, which Morocco firmly rejects. The resolution also mandates that UN Secretary-General António Guterres provide a strategic review of MINURSO’s tasks within six months, taking into account developments on the ground and the course of ongoing political negotiations.
The Security Council’s decision reflects a complex geopolitical landscape, with Morocco’s proposal gaining traction as a potential resolution to the Western Sahara conflict. The focus now shifts to the implementation of the resolution and the progress of future negotiations.
Source: Annahar
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