Quick Read
- Moroccan Sahara: UN Security Council extends MINURSO’s mandate to October 31, 2024 via resolution 2703.
- U.S. spearheaded the resolution.
- 13 members voted in favor, with 2 abstentions.
- Resolution endorses Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal for the Moroccan Sahara.
- Council reaffirms support for the UN Secretary General and his Special Representative’s endeavors for a sustainable resolution.
The UN Security Council has resolved to extend MINURSO’s mandate up to October 31, 2024, as stated in resolution 2703, which the United States spearheaded.
This decision garnered the support of 13 members, with 2 choosing to abstain. The latest resolution underscores the Council’s backing for the Moroccan autonomy proposal, put forth by Morocco in 2007. This initiative is recognized as a genuine and trustworthy approach to resolve the ongoing regional disagreement concerning the Moroccan Sahara, as cited in prior Security Council resolutions.
Furthermore, the Council members have reiterated their endorsement of the endeavors by the UN Secretary General and his Special Representative for the Moroccan Sahara. Their combined efforts aim to propel the political dialogue forward, aspiring to a balanced, practical, and enduring resolution grounded in mutual concessions.
Background: The Sahara Issue
The Sahara conflict revolves around the status of Sahara Region, a region in North Africa that borders Morocco, Algeria, and Mauritania. Since the withdrawal of Spain, its colonial power, in 1975, Sahara’s sovereignty has been disputed between the Algerian backed Polisario Militia and the Kingdom of Morocco.
Moroccan Sahara: Resolution 2703
The mentioned resolution, 2703, sponsored by the United States, extended MINURSO’s mandate until October 31, 2024. This is a routine decision made to ensure MINURSO continues its operations in the region, given the unresolved nature of the conflict.
The decision received substantial support with 13 votes in favor. The two abstentions might indicate reservations or concerns about specific aspects of the resolution but not outright opposition.
The resolution’s endorsement of the “Moroccan autonomy initiative” is noteworthy. In 2007, Morocco proposed a plan to grant the Sahara broad autonomy but under Moroccan sovereignty. This proposal is seen by many in the international community, and evidently by most of the Security Council, as a potentially viable solution to the long-standing conflict.
Lastly, the Council’s reaffirmation of support for the UN Secretary General and his Special Representative signals a continued commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the issue. Their roles involve mediating between the disputing parties, proposing solutions, and keeping the UN informed of developments.
In summary, while the extension of MINURSO’s mandate represents a continuation of the status quo, the UN Security Council’s resolutions provide insights into the international community’s stance on the matter and its hopes for a peaceful, negotiated settlement.
