Security Council confirms Moroccan sovereignty framework in Sahara settlement

Friday 31 October 2025 - 20:57

By: Sahili Aya

Security Council confirms Moroccan sovereignty framework in Sahara settlement

The United Nations Security Council adopted on Friday in New York a historic resolution marking a decisive turning point in the political process aimed at resolving the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.

The resolution, supported by 11 of the 15 Council members—including the United States and the Republic of Korea—expresses full support for the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy in advancing a political process based on the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative, described as a “just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution.”

No member voted against the text, while three countries abstained.

For the first time, a Security Council resolution makes explicit reference to autonomy “under Moroccan sovereignty,” confirming Rabat’s position, advocated since 2007, as the only realistic and credible framework for a final settlement.

The Council called on all parties to engage constructively and without preconditions, reiterating that the Autonomy Initiative remains “the most credible and feasible solution” to end the dispute.

The resolution extends the mandate of the MINURSO mission until 31 October 2026, and requests the Secretary-General to present a strategic review within six months, in light of progress in the political process.

The text also welcomes the efforts of the Personal Envoy to resume roundtable discussions between Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario, while thanking the United States for offering to host these negotiations.

Additionally, the resolution urges all stakeholders to avoid actions that could jeopardize the ceasefire, and expresses concern over the lack of humanitarian funding for Sahrawi refugees, calling on donors to strengthen support and facilitate registration efforts in the Tindouf camps.

This adoption comes at a time when a growing number of states recognize Morocco’s sovereignty over its Southern Provinces, reflecting a broader shift toward pragmatic, stability-oriented diplomacy in North Africa.

The resolution crowns a consistent diplomatic effort led by King Mohammed VI, whose strategic vision has strengthened Morocco’s international positioning and expanded global support for the autonomy initiative.