The Moroccan Cabinet Royal released a statement on October 30, 2026, regarding the United Nations' decision not to renew the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). According to the statement, the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate marks a significant step towards the closure of the Western Sahara issue at the UN. This development coincides with the celebration of Morocco's Unity Day, decreed by King Mohammed VI.
The MINURSO mission was established 35 years ago, and its presence in the southern provinces of Morocco will cease in the coming days, including its personnel, vehicles, equipment, and symbols. The mission was inherited from an outdated context and has long been seen as an instrument for internationalizing the regional dispute over Morocco's legitimate recovery of its Saharan provinces. The non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate is expected to lead to the end of the UN Security Council's involvement in the issue.
The UN Security Council's periodic meetings and reports on Western Sahara, as well as briefings from the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, will no longer be necessary. The UN political process, which has been hindered by disagreements among parties, will be suspended. Morocco has expressed satisfaction with this development, while reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire and respect for its territorial integrity, national security, and citizens' tranquility.
King Mohammed VI has launched a dynamic international initiative that has garnered significant support, with over two-thirds of UN member states, including permanent Security Council members and influential powers, backing Morocco's autonomy plan under its sovereignty as the sole framework for resolving the regional dispute. This initiative will continue at bilateral and regional levels.
The Moroccan government views the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate as a major step towards resolving the Western Sahara issue. The government emphasizes that this development reflects a shift in the management of the dossier, from a simple administrative approach to a more transformative one. Morocco is committed to continuing its efforts to capitalize on the support it has received and to pursue its international initiatives.
The decision not to renew MINURSO's mandate has been welcomed by Morocco as a positive development. The country has reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire and to defending its territorial integrity and national security. Morocco's international partners have taken note of this development, which is expected to have implications for the UN's role in the region.
The future of Western Sahara remains a complex issue, with Morocco's autonomy plan being the favored solution by many countries. The international community will be watching closely as Morocco continues to implement its initiative and engage with its partners to find a lasting solution to the dispute.
Key points
- Morocco's Cabinet Royal says non-renewal of MINURSO mandate ends UN involvement in Western Sahara issue
- Non-renewal of MINURSO mandate marks significant step towards closure of Western Sahara dossier at UN
- Morocco's autonomy plan under its sovereignty gains support from over two-thirds of UN member states
