As of April 2026, the Western Sahara dispute remains a focal point of Morocco's foreign policy, with the kingdom's autonomy proposal for the region continuing to attract international recognition. The plan, first presented to the United Nations in 2007, proposes broad self-governance under Moroccan sovereignty. Recent years have seen a growing number of countries, including the United States (since 2020) and several European and African nations, express support for this framework as a credible and serious solution.
Strategic realignments in 2025-2026 have further shaped the dossier. The normalization of relations between Morocco and Israel, part of the Abraham Accords, has reinforced Rabat's position, with Israel recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2023. Meanwhile, the United Nations continues to facilitate negotiations, with Staffan de Mistura serving as the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Western Sahara, though the peace process remains stalled due to disagreements between Morocco and the Polisario Front.
Key developments include the opening of consulates in the cities of Laayoune and Dakhla by over 20 countries, signaling tangible support for Morocco's territorial integrity. However, the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, maintains its demand for a referendum on self-determination, including independence. The African Union, of which both Morocco (rejoined in 2017) and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic are members, remains divided on the issue.
As of April 30, 2026, no major breakthrough has been reported, but the trend favors Morocco's autonomy plan as the most viable political solution, according to diplomatic sources. The situation remains monitored by international bodies, with the UN Security Council expected to renew the mandate of the MINURSO peacekeeping mission later in 2026.
