Mass Protests in Madrid: Spain Reminded of its Historical Responsibilities in Western Sahara

The protest, described as one of the largest in recent years, was a pointed critique of Spain’s ongoing official stance on Western Sahara. Demonstrators condemned the 1975 Madrid Accords—a tripartite agreement that divided the region among Spain, Morocco, and Mauritania—which they argue laid the foundation for the protracted conflict and denied the Sahrawi people their right to freedom.

A Call for Justice and Accountability

Protesters highlighted Spain’s enduring colonial responsibility as the administrative power of Western Sahara, urging the Spanish government to adopt a fair stance that prioritizes justice and international law. Placards and slogans accused Spain of neglecting its historical obligations, while activists called for concrete actions to rectify decades of harm caused by colonial decisions.

A statement from the Sahrawi Press Agency underscored the deep-seated frustration among demonstrators. “The Madrid Accords not only betrayed the Sahrawi people but also perpetuated a conflict that has left an entire nation in limbo,” the statement read.

Podemos Comunidad de Madrid, a Spanish political organization, expressed its support for the protest in a social media post:
“Madrid has once again taken to the streets in support of the Sahrawi people. Solidarity and justice unite us in this cause. #SaharaLibre #Justicia”

A Growing International Solidarity Movement

The demonstration reflected the increasing momentum of international solidarity with the Sahrawi cause. Many participants emphasized the growing role of the Sahrawi diaspora in raising awareness about the issue. As one activist noted, “The Sahrawi community has become a vital voice in keeping the struggle for independence alive on the global stage.”

Moreover, the rally served as a reminder of the escalating demand for Spain to address its colonial legacy. Protesters called on the government to advocate for a just solution that guarantees the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination, in line with United Nations resolutions.

Historical Betrayal, Ongoing Struggle

The Madrid Accords, signed in 1975, marked Spain’s abrupt withdrawal from Western Sahara, ceding administrative control to Morocco and Mauritania without consulting the Sahrawi people. This agreement is widely regarded as a violation of international law and a direct contributor to the decades-long conflict that ensued.

Saturday’s demonstration reiterated the international community’s growing impatience with the lack of progress in resolving the Western Sahara issue. Protesters urged Spain to take a definitive stand and support a referendum that would allow the Sahrawi people to determine their own future.

A Persistent Cry for Freedom

The Madrid protests underscore the enduring solidarity between the Sahrawi people and their Spanish allies. As flags of the SADR flew high and chants for freedom filled the air, the message was clear: the Sahrawi struggle for independence is far from forgotten.

The Sahrawi people’s call for justice remains a rallying cry not only for Spain but for the entire international community. Saturday’s demonstration served as a powerful reminder that the fight for Western Sahara’s freedom continues—and that Spain’s colonial past cannot be ignored.