President Tebboune Renews Support for Sahrawi People’s Struggle

Situated in the Sahel region and bordered by Algeria, the Kingdom of Morocco, and Mauritania, Western Sahara is recognized as a Non-Self-Governing Territory of the United Nations (UN), inhabited by the indigenous Sahrawi people. The roots of the conflict trace back to November 1975, when Morocco occupied the territory, disregarding international law and triggering a dispute that persists to this day.

Historical Context and Legal Framework

The colonization of Western Sahara by Spain from 1884 to 1975 left a legacy of unresolved territorial claims and political instability. Morocco’s unilateral annexation of the territory in 1975, through the so-called “Green March,” and subsequent settlement of Moroccan civilians sparked condemnation from the international community. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) affirmed the distinct status of Western Sahara as a Non-Self-Governing Territory and recognized the Sahrawi people’s sovereignty over their homeland.

The Polisario Front and Armed Struggle

In response to the Moroccan occupation, the Polisario Front emerged as the vanguard of the Sahrawi people’s resistance, advocating for self-determination and independence. Recognized by the UN General Assembly as the legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people, the Polisario Front waged an armed struggle against Moroccan forces until a ceasefire agreement was brokered by the UN in 1991.

International Diplomacy and UN Peacekeeping Efforts

Despite the ceasefire, the status of Western Sahara remains unresolved, with Morocco maintaining control over parts of the territory. The UN established the Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) to oversee peacekeeping efforts and facilitate a referendum on self-determination. However, political deadlock and competing interests have hindered progress towards a lasting solution.

Legal Precedents and International Support

Numerous legal rulings and UN resolutions uphold the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination and condemn Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara. The European Court of Justice and the UN General Assembly have reaffirmed the distinct status of Western Sahara and emphasized the illegality of economic activities that undermine the Sahrawi people’s rights.

Regional Dynamics and Algeria’s Role

Algeria, a staunch supporter of the Sahrawi cause, provides humanitarian aid and diplomatic backing to the Polisario Front. Viewing Western Sahara as a decolonization issue, Algeria advocates for UN-led negotiations and the implementation of Resolution 1514 for self-determination.

Prospects for Peace and Self-Determination

International efforts, including roundtable discussions facilitated by the UN Special Envoy, aim to revive negotiations and find a mutually acceptable solution to the conflict. However, challenges persist, exacerbated by competing geopolitical interests and resource exploitation in Western Sahara by Morocco.

Conclusion: Toward a Just and Lasting Solution

As the Western Sahara conflict enters its sixth decade, the imperative for a peaceful, just, and mutually acceptable resolution grows ever more urgent. The Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination must be respected, and any proposed solution should be grounded in international law and the principles of the UN Charter.