The Royal Cabinet of Morocco announced on October 30, 2026, that the UN Security Council had decided not to renew the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). This move marks a significant step towards closing the Western Sahara issue at the UN. The Moroccan government views this development as a major victory, emphasizing that it paves the way for the definitive closure of the Western Sahara dossier at the UN.
The decision was made after a double deadlock at the UN Security Council. A US-proposed draft resolution, which would have extended the MINURSO mandate until 2027 and recognized the Moroccan autonomy plan as the sole basis for negotiation, received 11 votes but was vetoed by Russia. Conversely, a Russian counter-proposal for a one-year technical extension without changes garnered only 3 votes and was blocked by the United States.
As a result of the deadlock, no resolution was adopted, and the MINURSO mandate expired on October 31, 2026. The Moroccan government has announced that the presence of MINURSO personnel, vehicles, equipment, and symbols in the southern provinces of the Kingdom should cease in the coming days. This move effectively turns the page on 35 years of UN involvement, initiated in 1991 by Resolution 690.
The Moroccan government considers this development a historic turning point, marking the end of the Security Council's involvement in the Western Sahara issue. Rabat expects this to lead to the withdrawal of the question from the UN's agenda, effectively ending periodic meetings, reports from the Secretary-General, and briefings from the Personal Envoy.
The decision coincides with Morocco's celebration of its Unity Day, decreed by King Mohammed VI. Morocco reaffirms its commitment to the ceasefire while continuing its diplomatic efforts. Notably, over two-thirds of UN member states now support autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty.
Morocco's Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, welcomed the decision, emphasizing that it reflects the international community's recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara. The Moroccan government asserts that this development will allow it to further consolidate its control over the region.
The African Union and other regional organizations have historically supported a peaceful resolution to the Western Sahara conflict. As Morocco moves forward, it is expected to engage in further diplomatic efforts to solidify its position and address concerns from neighboring countries, including Mali, which has maintained close ties with Morocco.
Key points
- Morocco celebrates a historic victory as the UN Security Council declines to renew the MINURSO mandate, effectively ending the UN's involvement in the Western Sahara issue.
