Moroccan Sahara: UN supports autonomy initiative

On October 31, 2025, the United Nations Security Council adopted a new resolution concerning the Moroccan Sahara. This decision reaffirms its full support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative, presented in 2007, as a realistic, sustainable, and fair solution to end the regional conflict.

International support for Morocco’s initiative for autonomy in the Moroccan Sahara

The resolution was approved by 11 countries, with 3 abstentions (China, Russia, Pakistan) and Algeria absent from the vote. The Council recalls all previous UN resolutions on the Sahara and fully supports the UN Secretary-General and his Special Envoy, Staffan de Mistura, in their efforts to facilitate negotiations between the four parties: Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front.

According to the Council, autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the most realistic and feasible solution, and enjoys growing international support. Many nations have expressed their support for this initiative, thereby strengthening Morocco’s position as a key player in regional stability in North Africa and Africa.

Extension of MINURSO’s mandate in the Moroccan Sahara

The resolution extends MINURSO’s mandate until October 31, 2026, emphasizing:

• Compliance with the ceasefire
• Prevention of any action that could compromise the political process
• The crucial role of the mission in supporting the Special Envoy in achieving a final political solution acceptable to both parties

The Council also invites Member States to actively support the negotiations and welcomes the US initiative to host the next rounds of dialogue.

Support for Sahrawi refugees

The resolution expresses concern about the lack of funding for Sahrawi refugees in the Tindouf camps and encourages donors to increase humanitarian aid. It stresses the importance of registering refugees and provides for a strategic review of MINURSO’s mandate in six months to assess progress made.

Moroccan autonomy as a lasting solution in the Moroccan Sahara

This decision confirms the international community’s support for autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as the only practical solution to the conflict. It marks a decline in support for separatist claims and underscores Morocco’s role as a reliable partner for regional and African stability.