Morocco has continued to consolidate its diplomatic gains regarding the Western Sahara dispute, particularly in Southern Africa, where a growing number of countries have opened consulates in the disputed territory's main city of Laayoune. As of May 2026, at least 28 countries have established diplomatic missions in Laayoune and Dakhla, including several from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
According to official Moroccan sources, the autonomy plan presented by Morocco in 2007 remains the only credible and realistic solution to the conflict, gaining increasing international recognition. The United States recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020, and several European and African nations have since followed suit or deepened their engagement.
In Southern Africa, countries such as Zambia, Eswatini, and the Comoros have opened consulates in Laayoune, signaling a shift in regional dynamics. This comes as the African Union maintains a neutral stance, while the United Nations continues to seek a political solution through the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General.
The Polisario Front, which advocates for independence, has seen its diplomatic influence wane in parts of Africa, though it retains support from Algeria and a few other nations. The situation remains a key issue in North African geopolitics.
