The Moroccan government has confirmed that the United Nations has decided not to renew the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara, known as Minurso. This decision was made during a meeting of the UN Security Council on October 30, 2026. According to a statement from the Royal Cabinet, this development marks a significant step towards closing the Western Sahara issue at the UN.
The end of Minurso's mandate coincides with Morocco's celebration of its Unity Day, a national holiday decreed by King Mohammed VI. The day symbolizes a shift in Morocco's approach to managing the Western Sahara issue, moving from a simple administrative approach to one of profound transformation. The non-renewal of Minurso's mandate implies that the mission's presence in the southern provinces of Morocco will cease in the coming days.
The Minurso mission was established 35 years ago, and its presence has been seen as an internationalization of the regional dispute over Western Sahara. Morocco considers Western Sahara to be its legitimate territory. The mission's end is expected to mark the closure of the file at the UN Security Council and the withdrawal of the issue from its agenda. This means that periodic meetings of the Security Council dedicated to Western Sahara, as well as reports from the UN Secretary-General and briefings from his personal envoy, will no longer take place.
The suspension of the UN peace process, which has been hindered by disagreements among parties, is a significant development. Morocco has expressed satisfaction with the evolution of the situation but reaffirms its commitment to the ceasefire, respecting its territorial integrity, national security, and citizens' tranquility. The country will continue its international efforts, launched by King Mohammed VI, at bilateral and regional levels.
Morocco's diplomatic efforts have already garnered significant support, with over two-thirds of UN member states, including permanent members of the Security Council and influential powers, backing autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as the only solution to the regional dispute. The Moroccan government sees this support as a validation of its stance on Western Sahara.
The end of Minurso's mandate and the suspension of the UN peace process mark a new chapter in the Western Sahara issue. Morocco is expected to take further actions at other UN bodies. The country remains committed to finding a solution to the dispute, but under its own terms and within the framework of its sovereignty.
The situation in Western Sahara remains complex, with multiple parties holding different positions. Morocco's move to suspend the UN peace process and end the Minurso mission reflects its determination to manage the issue on its own terms. The international community will be watching closely as the situation develops further.
Key points
- Morocco welcomes the end of the 35-year-old UN peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara
- The suspension of the UN peace process marks a significant shift in Morocco's approach to the Western Sahara issue
- Morocco has garnered significant international support for its stance on Western Sahara, with over two-thirds of UN member states backing autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty
