The United Nations Security Council approved, as anticipated, an extension of the MINURSO mandate in Western Sahara for another year, until 31 October 2023. The resolution was adopted by thirteen votes in favor, with Russia and Kenya abstaining, and it drew a mixed reception on the ground. Moroccan delegates, represented by ambassador Omar Hilale, welcomed the decision with visible enthusiasm in front of the United Nations, while Polisario Front spokesperson Sidi Omar offered a restrained response. The contrasting reactions mirror a familiar pattern: Rabat presses ahead on the diplomatic front while Polisario faces dwindling support and growing disappointments, a trend evident in the details of the text and the moments of the vote.
The draft resolution, authored by the United States, extends MINURSO’s mandate and urges the parties to return to negotiations, echoing the last talks held in 2019. It also renews the call for a political process that aims at a just, lasting solution acceptable to all, based on consensus. The document underscores Morocco’s autonomy plan as a central element of the proposed settlement, aligning with Rabat’s broader strategy to push for a negotiated framework that could address regional concerns.
As has been the case for many years, the text makes no reference to a referendum. This omission aligns with the stance of several actors who emphasize self-determination while prioritizing a pragmatic political track. Kenya’s abstention was explained as a concern about drifting from the original mission’s purpose, highlighting the delicate balance between acknowledging Saharawi rights and seeking a viable settlement. The report from the Secretary-General’s office, presented last week, does not dwell on Morocco’s year-long mobility restrictions in the region, nor does it detail the specific obstacles encountered in visiting certain sites.
The resolution repeatedly calls on Algeria and Mauritania to participate actively in the process as key stakeholders, a move that resonates with Morocco’s preference for broader dialogue. Yet many observers note that the wording seems to place Algeria in a more central role than is typically accepted in practice, raising questions about whether the process could truly be inclusive while limiting the observer’s role as originally envisaged.
“More Layers of Confusion”
Following the vote, Polisario’s Omar expressed that the Security Council had yet again fallen short of expected practical steps to strengthen MINURSO’s ability to fulfill its mandate, including paving the way for a self-determination referendum. The representative suggested that the outcome adds layers of ambiguity to an already complex situation.
Omar also rejected proposals to deepen Algeria’s involvement, stressing that Polisario would not join negotiations that deviate from the framework established by the United Nations and the African Union. He warned that the current decision could force Saharawi voices to choose between intensifying their struggle and accepting a status quo that does not fully honor their rights to self-determination and independence.
Moroccan ambassador Hilale, in contrast, characterized the resolution as a reaffirmation of international backing for Morocco’s autonomy plan. He stated that the document underscores the credibility and seriousness of Rabat’s proposal, and he pointed to broad international support, noting that many countries favor a solution based on Morocco’s autonomy framework. The ambassador framed the outcome as a regional resolution in a broader context, portraying it as a step toward stabilizing the North African landscape rather than a direct confrontation with Algeria.