UN Secretary-General António Guterres has recommended to the Security Council that the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (Minurso) be extended by one year, until October 31, 2027. This move aims to prevent an escalation of hostilities in the region. Guterres made this recommendation in his latest annual report on Western Sahara. The report highlights the ongoing conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front.
Guterres welcomed the resumption of direct negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario Front, which had not occurred in seven years. Three meetings were held in the first quarter of 2026. However, he noted that hostilities between the two parties continue. The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of Minurso's work in blocking the process and achieving a solution. Minurso's presence is crucial in maintaining stability in the region.
The Secretary-General stressed that without Minurso, the risk of escalating hostilities and the possibility of the conflict spreading in an already volatile region would increase dramatically. Guterres reiterated his appeal for the full restoration of the ceasefire to avoid actions that undermine the fragile trust between the parties. The ceasefire is essential for maintaining peace in the region.
Minurso was established in 1991 by the UN to supervise the ceasefire between Morocco and the Polisario Front. The Polisario Front claims independence for this non-autonomous territory in North Africa, while Morocco claims sovereignty. The mission's role is critical in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The extension of Minurso's mandate will be submitted to a vote in the UN Security Council before October 31, 2026, when the current mandate expires. The Security Council last renewed the mission's mandate in October 2025, through Resolution 2797. The resolution considered the plan of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as the most viable basis for achieving a definitive political solution.
Guterres' recommendation is based on his assessment of the situation in Western Sahara. He emphasized that a mutually acceptable solution to the conflict is still pending. The UN continues to play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The situation in Western Sahara remains complex, with ongoing hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario Front. The international community continues to support the UN's efforts to achieve a peaceful solution to the conflict. A lasting solution is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Key points
- Guterres recommends extending Minurso's mandate by one year to prevent escalation of hostilities.
- The UN Secretary-General welcomes the resumption of direct negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario Front.
- The extension of Minurso's mandate will be submitted to a vote in the UN Security Council before October 31, 2026.
