Morocco shifts the narrative on Sahara: A proactive approach to autonomy

Wednesday 16 April 2025 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco shifts the narrative on Sahara: A proactive approach to autonomy

Morocco is taking charge of the international dialogue surrounding Sahara, showcasing its Autonomy Plan as the only viable political resolution to the long-standing dispute.

Recent diplomatic successes have positioned the North African nation firmly at the forefront of discussions, as it garners increasing international support for its claims over the territory. No longer reliant on the United Nations to dictate the pace of negotiations, Morocco is now actively shaping the discourse in its favor.

The growing consensus around Morocco's Autonomy Plan is evident, with numerous countries recognizing it as a credible pathway to resolving the Sahara conflict. A source familiar with the situation revealed that King Mohammed VI's leadership has been pivotal in achieving significant milestones both bilaterally and multilaterally.

“The royal initiative has generated a genuine movement in Europe and globally, advocating for the Autonomy Initiative and reinforcing support for Morocco’s territorial integrity,” the source stated.

Ongoing international momentum

Recently, the United States has countered Algeria’s attempts to undermine Morocco’s claims to its southern provinces. Algeria has historically sought to sway the US administration, hiring lobbyists and leveraging pro-Polisario advocates disguised as human rights defenders to challenge Morocco's status. However, these efforts have been unfruitful, particularly under the Trump administration, which reaffirmed support for Morocco’s sovereignty.

Now, with Trump resuming office, a clear message has been sent to Algeria: the US remains steadfast in its backing of Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the sole feasible solution to the Sahara conflict. This affirmation aligns with similar positions taken by other countries, notably France, which reiterated its unwavering support in a recent statement by the French Foreign Ministry.

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that the future of Sahara must be viewed within the context of Moroccan sovereignty. This position was reinforced during a recent meeting between Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and French officials, aiming to dispel any misconceptions regarding France's stance on the issue.

Additionally, over 20 European nations have now endorsed Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative as a legitimate political resolution to the Sahara dispute. Countries such as Finland, Bulgaria, the Netherlands, and Spain have joined the ranks of supporters, which include Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany, among others.

Morocco leads the way at UNSC

Morocco’s proactive approach was further highlighted during a closed-door briefing at the UN Security Council by UN Envoy for Sahara, Staffan de Mistura. His remarks reflected a shift in tone favoring Morocco’s autonomy initiative, echoing recent statements by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who reiterated American support for Morocco’s claims.

Following a meeting with Bourita, Rubio expressed the US’s commitment to facilitating efforts toward achieving “genuine autonomy” and a “mutually acceptable solution” regarding the Sahara.

This evolving diplomatic landscape illustrates Morocco's ability to leverage its position, transforming the annual UN briefing into an opportunity for leadership and influence. As April, traditionally a month of sensitivity due to UN deadlines, shifts to a proactive agenda for Morocco, it signifies the kingdom's growing diplomatic strength and its capacity to mobilize international support for its Autonomy Initiative.