On October 30, 2023, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2703, extending the mandate of MINURSO and reaffirming the autonomy proposal presented by Morocco in 2007 as a serious and credible effort to resolve the Western Sahara dispute. The resolution, which received 13 votes in favor and 2 abstentions (Russia and Mozambique), calls for a realistic, pragmatic, and durable political solution based on compromise.
The autonomy plan, submitted by Morocco to the UN in April 2007, proposes self-governance for the Western Sahara region under Moroccan sovereignty. It includes provisions for local legislative, executive, and judicial powers, while Morocco retains control over defense and foreign affairs. The plan has been endorsed by several countries, including the United States, France, Spain, and Germany, as a viable framework for ending the decades-long conflict.
Polisario Front, which seeks independence for Western Sahara, has rejected the autonomy plan and continues to demand a referendum on self-determination. The UN has called for renewed negotiations between Morocco and Polisario, but talks have been stalled since 2019. The African Union and the European Union have also expressed support for the UN-led process.
As of May 2026, the situation remains unchanged, with Morocco maintaining control over most of the territory and the UN urging both parties to resume dialogue. The autonomy plan remains the primary framework discussed in international forums, though no breakthrough has been achieved.
