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UN's top security body has passed a US-backed resolution that supports Moroccan claim regarding the disputed Western Sahara, despite significant opposition from Algeria.

Split Decision Strengthens Morocco's Stance

Although the recent decision was split, the measure constitutes the most significant support yet for Moroccan proposal to retain sovereignty over the territory, which additionally enjoys support from the majority of European Union members and a increasing number of African partners.

Resolution Structure and Important Elements

The document describes Morocco's plan as a basis for negotiation. As with previous measures, the text doesn't include a vote on self-determination that includes sovereignty as an option, which represents the solution long favored by the independence-seeking Polisario movement and its allies.

Real autonomy under Morocco's authority could represent a most feasible resolution.

Background Information

Western Sahara is a mineral-rich area of coastline desert the size of Colorado which was under Spanish rule until the mid-1970s. It is asserted by both the Moroccan government and the Polisario Front, which functions from refugee camps in south-western Algeria and claims to represent the Sahrawi people native to the disputed territory.

Voting Results and International Responses

The United States, which proposed the measure, led 11 countries in voting in favor, while three nations – Russia, China and Pakistan – declined to vote. The neighboring country, Polisario's main supporter, did not vote.

The US ambassador, the American ambassador to the UN, said the decision had been "significant" and would "build on the momentum for a much-delayed resolution in Western Sahara".

Amar Bendjama, the Algerian representative to the United Nations, commented that while the resolution was an advancement on previous versions, it "still has a series of shortcomings".

Peacekeeping Operation and Future Assessment

The resolution also renews the United Nations peacekeeping operation in Western Sahara for another twelve months, as has been implemented for over three decades. Prior extensions, however, have not contained a mention to Moroccan and its supporters' preferred resolution.

The UN resolution urges all parties involved to "take this unique opportunity for a lasting resolution." Based on progress, it asks the secretary general to review the peacekeeping mission's mandate within half a year.

Regional Consequences and Present Situation

The shift could disrupt a long-stalled situation that for many years has eluded resolution, desdespite a United Nations peacekeeping mission that was designed to be temporary. Demonstrations have followed in Sahrawi refugee camps in the neighboring country this week, where people have vowed not to give up their struggle for self-determination.

The Moroccan government administers nearly all of Western Sahara, except for a thin area called the "liberated area" that lies east of a Moroccan-built barrier.

Historical Context and Recent Events

A 1991-era ceasefire was meant to facilitate a referendum on independence, but disagreements over voter eligibility prevented it from occurring.

Through time, the Moroccan government has developed the disputed region, building a maritime facility and a 656-mile road. Government support keep food and energy costs affordable, and the resident count has ballooned as Moroccans settle in urban areas such as Dakhla and Laayoune.

Polisario withdrew from the ceasefire in 2020 after confrontations near a road the government was paving to neighboring Mauritania.

The group has since frequently documented military activity, while Morocco has mostly denied active fighting. The United Nations describes it "limited hostilities".

Global Relations and Coming Prospects

Reacting to the proposed measure, the movement said that it would not join any process aiming "to validate Moroccan illegal presence," adding peace "can never be achieved by rewarding territorial claims".

The conflict constitutes the driving force in regional diplomacy. The Moroccan government considers endorsement of its proposal as a benchmark for how it assesses its international partners.

Last October, the UN representative proposed dividing Western Sahara, a suggestion no party agreed to. He encouraged Morocco to clarify what self-rule would entail and warned that a lack of progress might question the UN's function and "whether there is space and willingness for us to remain useful."

The push to reassess the UN operation comes as the US slashes funding for UN programmes and organizations, including security operations.