Understanding Morocco’s Opposition to the UN Proposal on Western Sahara
Morocco has reiterated its rejection of a United Nations proposal to partition Western Sahara, labeling it as “unacceptable.”
Western Sahara, a region claimed by both Morocco and the Polisario Front (which seeks independence for the area), has been the subject of a long-standing territorial dispute.
Morocco maintains that its autonomy plan, which would grant some local governance while keeping the territory under Moroccan sovereignty, is the only solution.
The UN proposal for partition was intended as a compromise to resolve the decades-long conflict, but Morocco has consistently rejected any plan that might undermine its claims to sovereignty over the entire territory.
Morocco’s firm stance is driven by both historical claims and strategic interests, as Western Sahara is rich in natural resources and has a key coastal position.
The Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, continues to push for a referendum on self-determination for the people of Western Sahara, which is also supported by several international actors.
However, peace talks mediated by the UN have so far failed to reach a consensus, and tensions in the region remain high.
Morocco’s latest statement signals its continued opposition to any solutions that might divide or reduce its control over the contested region.