🔗 Share this article UN Approves Resolution Favoring Moroccan Claim on Western Sahara UN's top security body has approved a US-backed resolution that favors Morocco's position regarding the contested territory, notwithstanding significant opposition from Algeria. Split Vote Strengthens Morocco's Stance Although the recent decision was split, the measure constitutes the most significant support yet for Moroccan plan to maintain control over the territory, which additionally has backing from most European Union members and a increasing number of African nation partners. Resolution Structure and Important Elements The document refers to Moroccan proposal as a basis for negotiation. As with previous measures, the document doesn't include a referendum on self-determination that includes independence as an option, which constitutes the solution traditionally favored by the pro-independence Polisario movement and its allies. Real self-rule under Moroccan authority could represent a most practical solution. Background Context Western Sahara is a phosphate-rich stretch of coastal arid land the area of a US state which was under Spain's control until the mid-1970s. It is claimed by both the Moroccan government and the Polisario Front, which functions from temporary settlements in southwestern neighboring Algeria and claims to speak for the Sahrawi people native to the contested territory. Decision Results and Global Reactions The US, which sponsored the resolution, led 11 countries in deciding in favor, while 3 countries – Russia, China and Pakistan – abstained. Algeria, Polisario's main supporter, did not vote. Mike Waltz, the American ambassador to the UN, stated the vote had been "historic" and would "build on the momentum for a long, long overdue resolution in Western Sahara". The Algerian ambassador, the Algerian ambassador to the United Nations, commented that while the measure was an improvement on previous versions, it "still has a number of deficiencies". Peacekeeping Mission and Future Review The measure also extends the United Nations security mission in Western Sahara for another year, as has been done for over thirty years. Prior extensions, however, have not included a mention to Moroccan and its supporters' favored resolution. The measure calls on all parties participating to "seize this unprecedented chance for a lasting resolution." Based on progress, it requests the UN leader to review the operation's authority within six months. Area Consequences and Current Situation The change could disrupt a long-stalled process that for decades has eluded settlement, notwithstanding a UN peacekeeping mission that was intended to be temporary. Protests have ensued in Sahrawi refugee camps in the neighboring country this week, where residents have pledged not to abandon their fight for self-determination. Morocco controls nearly all of the territory, except for a thin area known as the "liberated area" that lies to the east of a Moroccan-built barrier. Historical Context and Recent Developments A 1991-era ceasefire was intended to facilitate a vote on independence, but fighting over voter eligibility blocked it from taking place. Through time, Morocco has developed the disputed territory, building a deepwater port and a long highway. Government support keep food and energy costs affordable, and the population has ballooned as Moroccans settle in urban areas such as Dakhla and Laayoune. Polisario ended the truce in 2020 after clashes near a road Morocco was constructing to neighboring Mauritania. The movement has subsequently frequently reported security activity, while Morocco has mostly rejected claims of open conflict. The United Nations calls it "limited hostilities". International Relations and Future Prospects In response to the proposed measure, the movement said that it would not join any initiative aiming "to 'legitimise' Morocco's illegal military occupation," adding peace "can never be achieved by rewarding expansionism". The situation represents the driving force in regional diplomacy. The Moroccan government considers endorsement of its autonomy plan as a standard for how it assesses its international partners. Recently, the UN envoy suggested dividing Western Sahara, a suggestion neither side agreed to. He urged Morocco to specify what autonomy would entail and cautioned that a lack of progress might question the United Nations' role and "whether there is space and willingness for us to remain useful." The initiative to reassess the UN operation comes as the US reduces funding for United Nations initiatives and agencies, including peacekeeping.