Morocco defends Sahara position at UN as debate highlights diverging approaches with Algeria

Morocco reaffirmed its position on the Sahara dispute before the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization, known as the Committee of 24, arguing that its autonomy initiative remains the most realistic basis for resolving the decades-long conflict.

During committee discussions, Moroccan representatives said the dispute should be addressed through a political solution centered on the autonomy plan proposed by Rabat in 2007, under Moroccan sovereignty. Moroccan officials argued that previous approaches had failed to produce a lasting settlement and no longer reflect the current direction of U.N. efforts.

Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Omar Hilale, rejected Algeria’s characterization of its role in the dispute, maintaining that Algeria is a principal stakeholder because of its support for the Polisario Front. Moroccan officials said any durable political solution would require the participation of all parties involved in the conflict.

Rabat also reiterated its position that proposals such as a referendum no longer align with the framework advanced by the U.N. Security Council, which has repeatedly called for a political, realistic and mutually acceptable solution.

Moroccan representatives highlighted what they described as growing international support for the autonomy initiative. They pointed to endorsements from several countries and the opening of consulates in the southern cities of Laayoune and Dakhla as evidence of expanding diplomatic backing.

Morocco also cited support expressed by countries including The Gambia, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait during U.N. discussions, presenting those positions as part of a broader trend favoring its approach to the dispute.

Moroccan officials further emphasized that the U.N. Security Council remains the primary body overseeing efforts to advance a political settlement, under the authority of the U.N. secretary-general and his personal envoy. They argued that this framework is better suited to addressing the current realities of the conflict than the decolonization committee process.

The discussions reflected the continuing differences between Morocco and Algeria over the future of the territory, as diplomatic efforts continue under U.N. auspices to seek a negotiated political solution.