The Algerian government has portrayed the presidency as an opportunity to spotlight its foreign policy priorities, including its support for the Polisario Front’s separatist ambitions in Western Sahara. Analysts suggest the move aims to counter Morocco’s recent diplomatic successes in securing international recognition of its sovereignty over the region.
“The Algerian regime is exaggerating this procedural role to project diplomatic clout,” said Shawki Benzahra, a political activist based in Algeria tells Hespress AR. “In reality, it is a routine rotation that does not grant any decision-making power.” He added that Algeria’s disproportionate focus on Western Sahara undermines attention to other pressing regional and global issues, including the Palestinian cause.
Algeria has faced criticism for its heavy investment in opposing Morocco’s territorial claims while neglecting pressing domestic challenges and broader regional cooperation.
Said Berkane, a political analyst, emphasized that the UNSC presidency is assigned alphabetically and is primarily administrative. “The presidency does not allow Algeria to influence decisions, particularly regarding Western Sahara,” he said. “That issue was already addressed in October, when the Council renewed MINURSO’s mandate.”
During its January presidency, Algeria will oversee discussions on pre-scheduled topics, including the political process in Syria, the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, and counterterrorism in Africa. However, Algeria’s role will be limited to organizing and facilitating debates rather than shaping outcomes.
Berkane highlighted potential challenges Algeria may face when leading discussions on African terrorism. “Algeria hosts elements of the Polisario Front in Tindouf, and international reports have linked some of these groups to terrorist networks, including al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb,” he said.
The analyst added that Algeria’s involvement in counterterrorism discussions might draw scrutiny, given its alleged connections to armed groups operating in the region.
Algeria’s rotational presidency comes as Morocco continues to gain international support for its autonomy plan in Western Sahara, further intensifying regional tensions. Observers suggest that Algeria’s focus on amplifying its UNSC role reflects broader efforts to bolster its regional influence amid ongoing diplomatic rivalries.
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