A group of 40 states earlier this week expressed their unequivocal backing of Morocco’s sovereignty claim over the Western Sahara.
They said autonomy of the enclave under Moroccan sovereignty is the most realistic basis for a political settlement.
The declaration supporting the autonomy plan was delivered by Omar Zniber, Morocco’s Permanent Representative in Geneva, during the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council.
The signatories characterised the issue as a political dispute falling within the purview of the UN Security Council.
The group cited Security Council Resolution 2797, adopted on October 31, 2025, and advocated for negotiations leading to a definitive and mutually acceptable solution. It also welcomed the presentation of an updated, detailed version of the Moroccan autonomy initiative.
Since 2007, Rabat has proposed autonomy for the territory under its sovereignty.
For its part, the Polisario Front – with Algeria’s backing – calls for a referendum that includes the option of independence.
The collective declaration does not resolve this disagreement, nor does it initiate new negotiations between the parties.
Furthermore, the signatories highlighted Morocco’s cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms and the economic activity linked to the diplomatic missions opened in Laayoune and Dakhla.
These assessments reflect the group’s position and do not constitute an independent evaluation of the situation on the ground.
While the text bolsters the diplomatic support sought by Rabat, it constitutes neither a Human Rights Council resolution nor a UN decision altering the legal status of Western Sahara. Its immediate significance remains political, as any settlement still hinges on an agreement negotiated within the UN framework.
MK/AK/Sf/fss/as/APA