The occupied Western Sahara regions are witnessing an unprecedented escalation of systematic repression by Moroccan occupation forces, coinciding with the country's legislative elections. The Sahrawi entity against Moroccan occupation, Isacom, condemned the continued repression and retaliation against Sahrawi activists and citizens in the occupied areas. They demand their right to self-determination and independence, as guaranteed by international human rights charters and decisions.
Isacom considered the Moroccan occupation forces' actions against Sahrawi women in Boujdour, including raids on their homes, a new crime added to Morocco's record of systematic violations. These actions are punishable under international law. The entity emphasized that these practices constitute a flagrant violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Convention against Torture.
The National Mechanism for Coordinating Human Rights Work warned of the dangers of continued repression and systematic tightening by Moroccan occupation authorities in Western Sahara. The mechanism noted a significant increase in violations as the Sahrawi people prepare to commemorate their National Unity Day on October 12. It stressed that targeting citizens and activists for their peaceful positions is a futile attempt to dissuade them from demanding their right to self-determination and independence.
The Sahrawi Association for Victims of Grave Human Rights Violations, committed by the Moroccan State, documented the arrest of 17-year-old Sahrawi youth, Omar Moulay Himdaha, in occupied Smara. He was subjected to various forms of abuse, including lengthy interrogation and threats to his family members. The association considered this a flagrant violation of human rights and fair trial guarantees.
The association held Moroccan occupation authorities responsible for ensuring the safety of the young man and his family. It will continue to monitor this incident as part of its work to document violations committed against Sahrawi civilians in occupied Western Sahara. The international community has called for investigations into human rights abuses in the region.
Human rights organizations and activists have repeatedly expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in Western Sahara. They urge the international community to take action to protect the rights of the Sahrawi people. Morocco's actions in the region have been widely criticized by human rights groups.
The situation in Western Sahara remains tense, with continued reports of human rights abuses and repression. The international community must address these issues and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Key points
- Moroccan occupation forces escalate repression in Western Sahara amid legislative elections
- Sahrawi activists and citizens face systematic repression and retaliation
- International community urged to take action to protect Sahrawi people's rights
