Polisario's dwindling relevance amid European rejection

Thursday 22 May 2025 - 08:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Polisario's dwindling relevance amid European rejection

Despite mounting setbacks, the Algerian-backed Polisario Front persists in projecting a semblance of international presence, even as it grapples with increasing isolation. Recent reports from Algerian media and Polisario-affiliated outlets highlight the group's representatives' meetings in Brussels, ostensibly linked to the preparatory sessions for the 3rd meeting of African Union and European Union foreign ministers.

The meetings, which included discussions between Polisario’s self-proclaimed “minister of Foreign Affairs” and Algeria’s Ahmed Attaf, were portrayed as an opportunity to exchange views on the Sahara issue. However, this portrayal appears to be little more than a theatrical display, emblematic of Algeria’s ongoing campaign against Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces.

In a critical affirmation of its position, the European Union’s spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy reiterated that neither the EU nor its member states recognize the self-declared Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR). This statement serves as a significant blow to both the Polisario Front and its Algerian patrons, underscoring the group's dwindling influence on the international stage.

Algeria continues to shelter Polisario in Tindouf, where approximately 90,000 Sahrawis face dire living conditions, compounded by disease, malnutrition, and severe restrictions on movement. Despite the financial support received from the Algerian government, which funds the separatist agenda, many within the international community—including the United Nations—have expressed grave concerns over the humanitarian situation in Tindouf.

The recent dialogue in Brussels was not undertaken at the invitation of the EU, further emphasizing Polisario's declining relevance. In response to queries regarding the group's participation, the EU spokesperson clarified that any such presence was orchestrated by the African Union, not facilitated by the EU.

This is not the first instance of rejection faced by the Polisario Front within European institutions. In January, numerous Members of the European Parliament called for a boycott of a closed-door meeting attended by members of the separatist group, reflecting a broader trend of diminishing support.

As the EU navigates its relationship with Morocco, it has acknowledged the necessity of cooperation with the North African nation, particularly following a contentious ruling by the European Court of Justice concerning the EU-Morocco agriculture and fisheries agreements. This ruling has sparked significant debate, with Morocco firmly rejecting its relevance, emphasizing that it did not participate in the legal proceedings.

In November, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita expressed the nation’s anticipation for the EU to clarify its approach to the provocations and pressures faced by Morocco, urging the need for meaningful solutions that reflect the partnership between the two parties.

In conclusion, the Polisario Front's attempts to assert its presence in international discussions appear increasingly futile, as both the EU and broader international community reaffirm their recognition of Morocco’s territorial integrity. The ongoing developments render the Polisario’s narrative of relevance ever more tenuous.