Morocco’s Acknowledgment of Non-Aligned Movement’s Backing for Sahrawi People: Genuine Progress or Hollow Gesture?
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a significant development, Morocco has acknowledged and recognized the outcomes of the meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement, expressing support for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people. The Non-Aligned Movement, consisting of 120 member states and 17 observer states, along with international and regional organizations, has affirmed the inalienable right of the Sahrawi people to determine their own destiny. While this recognition is a positive step, the crucial question remains: Will Morocco abide by its commitment this time?
The recent ministerial conference of the Non-Aligned Movement, held under the presidency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, emphasized the imperative of enabling the Sahrawi people to exercise their right to self-determination in accordance with international legitimacy. The movement’s final document endorsed the principles outlined in the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 1514, which emphasizes the granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples.
The inclusion of the Western Sahara issue on the agenda of the Non-Aligned Movement highlights the urgency and importance of this matter. The formation of the Non-Aligned Movement in the mid-20th century was aimed at supporting the liberation of colonial countries from oppressive colonialism, making it highly relevant to the Western Sahara and its Sahrawi population.
Morocco, through its representative Omar Hilal, has agreed to the final document of the Non-Aligned Movement’s ministerial meeting, which implicitly recognizes Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara. However, Hilal’s tendency to divert attention towards unrelated issues and engage in provocative rhetoric against Algeria undermines the essence of the matter at hand. Rather than addressing the concerns raised by the international community, Morocco should focus on rectifying its own mistakes and solving internal issues.
It is disheartening to witness such behavior from Morocco’s representative, which appears to be driven by a mix of schizophrenia and chauvinism. While the Non-Aligned Movement unequivocally supports the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination and urges an end to Morocco’s occupation, Hilal’s contradictory actions and statements raise concerns about Morocco’s commitment to the cause.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, has previously highlighted the obstructionist stance of a party involved in the Western Sahara issue. Although not explicitly naming the party, Hilal’s conduct during the Non-Aligned Movement meeting strongly suggests that Morocco has been disregarding and defying UN resolutions, denying the Sahrawi people their natural and legitimate right to self-determination.
Morocco’s recognition of the Non-Aligned Movement’ support for the Sahrawi people should not be taken lightly. It is a glimmer of hope that Morocco might finally embrace a constructive approach towards resolving the Western Sahara issue. The international community, including Morocco, must honor the principles of international legitimacy and work together to ensure the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination is realized.
The time has come for Morocco to demonstrate genuine commitment and engage in meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders involved. Only through a peaceful and negotiated resolution, in accordance with international law, can the Sahrawi people achieve the freedom and justice they have long awaited. The eyes of the world are upon Morocco, eagerly awaiting concrete actions that align with its newfound recognition in favor of the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination.
