The United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) has begun its liquidation phase after its mandate expired on October 31, 2026. The mission's end comes after the UN Security Council failed to agree on an extension, with two draft resolutions put forward by the US and Russia being rejected. The Russian ambassador vetoed the US draft, while the Russian draft did not secure enough votes.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed gratitude for MINURSO's role in maintaining a ceasefire and creating conditions for a political settlement in Western Sahara since its establishment in 1991. However, he also voiced concern over the security situation in the region and the risks of escalating hostilities. Guterres called on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could increase tensions or compromise regional stability.
According to Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, the liquidation phase of MINURSO will be overseen by a reduced team that will report to the UN Department of Operational Support. The team will be responsible for organizing the repatriation of assets belonging to troop-contributing countries and disposing of UN-owned equipment in accordance with established procedures.
The failure to extend MINURSO's mandate has raised concerns about the future of the Western Sahara peace process. The mission was established in 1991 to organize a referendum on the territory's status, which has been disputed between Morocco and the Polisario Front for decades. The situation remains complex, with many parties involved and no clear solution in sight.
The UN Security Council has been divided on the issue of Western Sahara, with some members supporting Morocco's claim to sovereignty and others backing the Polisario Front's right to self-determination. The rejection of the two draft resolutions has highlighted the deep-seated differences within the council and the challenges of finding a solution to the conflict.
As MINURSO winds down its operations, the international community is calling for calm and restraint in the region. The situation in Western Sahara remains fragile, and any escalation of hostilities could have serious consequences for regional stability and security. The UN continues to play a role in promoting peace and stability in the region, despite the end of MINURSO's mandate.
The liquidation of MINURSO's assets and the repatriation of equipment will be a complex process, requiring careful planning and coordination. The UN Department of Operational Support will oversee the process, ensuring that all assets are properly accounted for and disposed of in accordance with UN regulations.
Key points
- The UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) has ended its mandate after failing to secure an extension.
- The mission's liquidation phase will be overseen by a reduced team reporting to the UN Department of Operational Support.
- The situation in Western Sahara remains fragile, with concerns about regional stability and security.
