Morocco-Algeria UN Exchange on Western Sahara Decolonization
Morocco and Algeria exchanged views at the UN on the decolonization of Western Sahara, with no agreement reached.
June 18, 2026
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Source: yabiladi.com
On June 17, 2026, Morocco and Algeria engaged in a diplomatic exchange at the United Nations regarding the decolonization of Western Sahara. The discussions, held during a UN committee session, highlighted ongoing tensions between the two North African nations over the disputed territory.
Morocco reiterated its position that Western Sahara is an integral part of its sovereign territory, proposing autonomy under Moroccan rule. Algeria, supporting the Polisario Front, called for a self-determination referendum for the Sahrawi people, as per UN resolutions.
No concrete outcomes were reported, with both sides maintaining their longstanding stances. The UN continues to mediate, but progress remains stalled since the 1991 ceasefire.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Western Sahara dispute?
It is a territorial conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front over the Western Sahara region, with Morocco claiming sovereignty and the Polisario seeking independence.
What was the outcome of the UN exchange?
No agreement was reached; both Morocco and Algeria maintained their positions on the decolonization of Western Sahara.
When did the conflict start?
The conflict began in 1975 after Spain withdrew from Western Sahara, leading to a war between Morocco and the Polisario Front until a 1991 ceasefire.