On October 30, 2024, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2797 regarding Western Sahara. The resolution, which passed with 13 votes in favor and 2 abstentions (Mozambique and Russia), reaffirms the UN's commitment to a political solution to the dispute. It operates under Chapter VI of the UN Charter, which deals with the pacific settlement of disputes, and extends the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) until October 31, 2025.
Morocco's Ambassador to the UN, Omar Hilale, described the resolution as a 'political verdict without precedent' and a 'roadmap to definitively close the dispute.' He emphasized that the resolution treats the Western Sahara issue exclusively under Chapter VI, which focuses on peaceful resolution and maintaining international peace and security, rather than Chapter VII, which allows for enforcement actions.
The resolution notably does not mention a referendum on self-determination, a key demand of the Polisario Front and Algeria. Instead, it calls for a 'realistic, practicable, and enduring political solution' based on compromise. This language aligns with Morocco's autonomy proposal for Western Sahara, which has gained increasing international support, including recognition from the United States under the Trump administration in 2020.
Algeria and the Polisario Front have rejected the resolution, arguing it ignores the right to self-determination for the Sahrawi people. The Polisario Front has threatened to resume armed conflict if the UN does not address their demands. The situation remains tense, with the UN urging all parties to engage in dialogue without preconditions.
