BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | January 23rd, 2025 — The European Parliament is set to host a meeting on Tuesday with the participation of the Sahrawi liberation movement, the Polisario Front. This invitation, extended by the Committee on International Trade (INTA), marks a significant step forward following the European Court of Justice’s historic October 2024 ruling invalidating EU-Morocco fisheries and agriculture agreements due to their application to Western Sahara, a non-self-governing territory.
Yet, this democratic development has provoked a backlash from some far-right quarters. Thierry Mariani, a Member of the European Parliament affiliated with Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally party, emerged as a vocal opponent, attempting to obstruct the Polisario Front’s inclusion. Mariani, whose political record is marred by staunch advocacy for Morocco’s colonial aspirations, resorted to inflammatory rhetoric that not only undermines international law but also aligns with Morocco’s expansionist agenda.
In an impassioned yet factually questionable address, Mariani called for the cancellation of the Polisario’s participation, claiming, “This militia, supported by Algeria, has ties to Islamists and has committed atrocities against civilians.” He further alleged mismanagement of humanitarian aid in Tindouf camps while arguing that the invitation “damages the dignity of our Parliament and compromises relations with Morocco.” Mariani’s statements reflect a broader, troubling strategy to silence the voices advocating for the decolonization of Africa’s last colony.
A Transparent Agenda with Colonial Overtones
Mariani’s intervention underscores his alignment with Morocco’s geopolitical agenda, fueled by financial incentives that recall the notorious “MoroccoGate” scandal. The bribery case, involving Moroccan diplomats and European lawmakers, continues to cast a long shadow over the credibility of the European Parliament. Observers note that Mariani’s loyalty to Morocco and its autocratic regime raises questions about his impartiality and ethical integrity.
In a pointed response, Spanish MEP Ana Miranda from the Galician Nationalist Bloc dismantled Mariani’s arguments. “The invitation to the Polisario Front aligns with the European Court of Justice ruling and respects this Parliament’s rules. Do not attempt to undermine what is both legal and consistent with international law,” Miranda asserted. She also criticized the far-right and conservative factions for perpetuating undue pressure to derail the Sahrawi cause, adding, “This is not just an attack on Sahrawi representation but an affront to the principles of justice and self-determination.”
Miranda’s remarks highlight the increasing polarization within the European Parliament over Western Sahara. As support for the Sahrawi people’s rights grows among progressive and democratic forces, Morocco and its allies in the far-right camp cling to colonialist tropes, attempting to derail the legitimate aspirations of the Sahrawi people for self-determination.
Polisario Front Defends Its Legitimacy
In a statement to Spanish newspaper El Independiente, the Polisario Front reaffirmed its confidence in the European Parliament’s commitment to fairness. “Despite Thierry Mariani’s opposition, a majority within the INTA committee has invited us to present our perspective. This reflects the spirit of the European Court of Justice’s ruling and the broader respect for international law,” the statement read.
The Polisario also reiterated its call for constructive dialogue, urging all parliamentary groups to engage in open discussions that prioritize peace, development, and regional integration. “The era of colonialism, xenophobia, and resource exploitation is over. The African people have rejected these practices, and we are steadfast in our commitment to justice,” the statement declared.
Further, the Polisario took aim at France’s far-right politicians and their role in perpetuating instability across Africa. “The extremist positions of French politicians, combined with the current government’s policies, have diminished France’s influence in Europe, Africa, and beyond,” the group noted. “As France grapples with internal crises and declining global stature, we trust that the French people will rise again under leadership that inspires them to uphold their rich legacy of justice and human rights.”
A Struggle for Justice Amidst Geopolitical Games
The upcoming meeting in the European Parliament represents more than a procedural debate. It is a microcosm of the larger struggle between forces of decolonization and those seeking to perpetuate outdated systems of domination. Thierry Mariani’s intervention, though unsuccessful, underscores the persistent influence of Morocco’s Makhzen agenda within certain European political circles.
However, the Sahrawi people’s determination and the growing international recognition of their legitimate rights signal a shift in global dynamics. As the Polisario Front prepares to address the European Parliament, it does so as a symbol of resistance against colonialism and a voice for peace and self-determination in the Maghreb and Africa.
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