The United States has introduced substantial amendments to its draft UN resolution on Western Sahara, in an effort to avoid a Russian veto. The modified draft is set to be put to a vote by the UN Security Council on Friday. According to reports, the revised text reinstates fundamental terms, including the right to self-determination, which had been omitted in earlier drafts.
The original draft had described Morocco's autonomy proposal as the only viable solution, but this language has been revised to state that autonomy forms the basis for continued negotiations. The revised draft also describes autonomy as the most realistic solution to the Western Sahara issue. These changes aim to garner broader support for the resolution.
The revised draft renews the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara for another year, but with a changed name: the UN Mission in Western Sahara. Notably, the term "referendum" is no longer included in the mission's title. This change reflects a shift in the UN's approach to the Western Sahara issue.
The modified draft includes a new paragraph that reaffirms the commitment to a peaceful, just, and lasting solution, in line with the principles of the UN Charter, including the right to self-determination. The text also emphasizes the importance of consultations with a broad range of Sahrawi stakeholders, including those in the diaspora.
The draft resolution calls on the UN's Personal Envoy to engage with a wide range of Sahrawi parties, including those outside the negotiating parties, both within the territory and in refugee camps. It also requests the completion of refugee registration in Tindouf within six months, in cooperation with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
The changes to the draft resolution reflect a compromise aimed at securing Russian support and avoiding a veto. The US and Russia have differing views on the Western Sahara issue, with Russia often siding with Morocco's opponents. The revised draft's emphasis on self-determination and autonomy may help to build a broader consensus.
The UN Security Council's vote on the revised draft resolution is expected to take place on Friday. The outcome remains uncertain, as the Council's members have differing views on the Western Sahara issue. A two-thirds majority is required for adoption, and it is unclear whether the revised draft will secure the necessary votes.
Key points
- The US has revised its draft UN resolution on Western Sahara to avoid a Russian veto.
- The revised draft reinstates the right to self-determination and describes autonomy as the most realistic solution.
- The modified draft renews the UN mission's mandate and calls for consultations with a broad range of Sahrawi stakeholders.
