Mali's ruling military junta has officially withdrawn its recognition of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), the Polisario Front's declared state for Western Sahara. The decision, announced by the Malian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aligns Bamako's position with that of Morocco, which claims sovereignty over the entire territory.
The move, confirmed by a statement from the Malian foreign ministry on April 21, 2026, represents a significant diplomatic shift. Mali had recognized the SADR in previous decades. The junta cited a desire for "realism and a pragmatic approach" to regional issues as a reason for the policy reversal.
Western Sahara is a disputed territory, largely controlled by Morocco but claimed by the Polisario Front, which seeks independence. The United Nations considers it a non-self-governing territory and has been seeking a political solution for decades. The African Union recognizes the SADR as a member state, while many other nations, including the United States under the Trump administration, have recognized Moroccan sovereignty.
Analysts view Mali's decision as part of a broader realignment by the Sahelian junta, which has strengthened ties with Morocco and distanced itself from traditional allies. The move is expected to strain Mali's relations with Algeria, a key backer of the Polisario Front and a regional rival of Morocco.
