🔗 Share this article United Nations Backs Resolution Supporting Morocco's Claim on Western Sahara UN's top security body has adopted a American-supported measure that endorses Morocco's claim regarding the contested territory, notwithstanding strong resistance from Algeria. Divided Decision Strengthens Moroccan Stance Although the recent decision was split, the measure represents the most significant endorsement yet for Moroccan proposal to retain sovereignty over the region, which also enjoys backing from most EU countries and a growing number of African nation allies. Measure Structure and Key Components The resolution refers to Moroccan proposal as a foundation for negotiation. Similar to previous resolutions, the document makes no mention of a referendum on self-determination that includes sovereignty as an choice, which constitutes the approach long supported by the independence-seeking Polisario movement and its supporters. Real autonomy under Morocco's authority could constitute a most practical resolution. Historical Information The territory is a phosphate-rich stretch of coastal desert the size of Colorado which was under Spanish rule until 1975. It is asserted by both the Moroccan government and the Polisario movement, which functions from refugee camps in south-western neighboring Algeria and claims to speak for the indigenous people native to the contested region. Voting Results and Global Reactions The US, which proposed the measure, led 11 countries in deciding in favor, while 3 nations – Russia, China and Pakistan – declined to vote. Algeria, the movement's main supporter, did not participate. Mike Waltz, the American ambassador to the United Nations, said the vote had been "significant" and would "build on the progress for a much-delayed resolution in Western Sahara". Amar Bendjama, the Algeria's ambassador to the United Nations, said that while the measure was an advancement on previous iterations, it "contains a series of shortcomings". Peacekeeping Operation and Future Review The measure also renews the United Nations security operation in the territory for an additional year, as has been done for more than thirty years. Prior extensions, though, have not contained a mention to Morocco and its supporters' favored outcome. The measure calls on all parties involved to "take this unprecedented opportunity for a lasting resolution." Based on developments, it asks the UN leader to review the peacekeeping mission's authority within half a year. Regional Consequences and Present Conditions The shift could disrupt a protracted process that for decades has escaped resolution, desdespite a United Nations security operation that was intended to be temporary. Demonstrations have ensued in Sahrawi refugee camps in the neighboring country this recent period, where residents have vowed not to give up their fight for independence. Morocco controls nearly all of the territory, except for a thin area known as the "liberated area" that lies to the east of a constructed by Morocco sand wall. Historical Background and Recent Events A 1991 truce was intended to facilitate a vote on self-determination, but fighting over voter eligibility prevented it from taking place. Over the years, the Moroccan government has transformed the disputed territory, building a maritime facility and a 656-mile highway. Government support keep food and energy costs low, and the population has ballooned as Moroccans settle in cities such as major settlements. The movement withdrew from the ceasefire in recent years after clashes near a route the government was paving to neighboring Mauritania. The movement has since regularly reported military operations, while the government has primarily denied active fighting. The UN calls it "limited tensions". International Diplomacy and Future Possibilities In response to the draft resolution, Polisario stated that it would not join any initiative aiming "to 'legitimise' Moroccan unauthorized military occupation," saying resolution "cannot happen by rewarding territorial claims". The situation constitutes the central issue in north African international relations. Morocco views support for its proposal as a benchmark for how it gauges its allies. Last October, the UN envoy suggested dividing the territory, a proposal no party agreed to. He encouraged Morocco to specify what self-rule would entail and warned that a lack of development might raise questions about the UN's function and "whether there is space and willingness for us to remain effective." The push to review the United Nations Mission comes as the US slashes funding for United Nations initiatives and agencies, including security operations.