UN must shift stance on Sahara, say Moroccan scholars
Two Moroccan scholars have published a policy brief examining the evolving stance of the United Nations (UN) on the Sahara dispute, in light of recent diplomatic momentum.
As reported by the pro-government outlet Hespress on May 11th, the analysis centres on renewed US support for Morocco’s autonomy plan, reaffirmed in April 2025.
The Moroccan scholars argue that this backing for the Sahara has helped build a broader global consensus around what they view as a practical resolution, one they urge the UN to adopt.
Published by the Policy Center for the New South, the paper notes that while there are encouraging signals within the UN Security Council, the broader UN-led process remains stalled due to persistent divisions among member states and the ongoing stagnation of the MINURSO mission.
Co-authors Fadwa Amrani, professor of international law at Hassan II University in Casablanca, and Reda Lyammouri, a senior fellow at the Centre, urge a shift in the UN’s approach towards what they term a “realistic and compromise-based doctrine.”
The UN must abandon its passive attitude and actively and explicitly support a political solution rooted in Moroccan sovereignty and autonomy, Amrani and Lyammouri both agree.
The argument is structured around three core axes.
The first point explores the disconnect between the UN’s optimistic language and the absence of tangible outcomes, posing the question: “Hopeful signals or continued paralysis?”
The second highlights the “domino effect” sparked by US support, suggesting it could open the door to wider multilateral involvement.
The third calls for decisive steps rather than continued delay, advocating for a new UN framework “anchored in realism and constructive engagement.”
“This renewed US backing came at a pivotal moment,” the authors write.
“It has helped consolidate a wide international front around a realistic and consensus-driven solution, further isolating defenders of the status quo.”
The argument concludes with an acknowledgement of visible momentum, reflected in the changing language of UN reports and growing member state mobilisation.
But for that to bear fruit, “the UN must recognise that there will be no resolution without autonomy. Prolonging ambiguity only delays the inevitable.”
In addition, it states that Morocco will cooperate fully under UN auspices.
Morocco’s conciliatory approach and proposed autonomy plan present the international community with a rare opportunity to resolve the long-standing dispute and restore prospects for regional stability.
Hespress/Maghrebi
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