🔗 Share this article United Nations Backs Measure Supporting Morocco's Position on Disputed Territory The UN Security Council has approved a US-backed measure that favors Morocco's position regarding the disputed territory, despite significant resistance from neighboring Algeria. Divided Vote Strengthens Morocco's Position While Friday's vote was split, the resolution constitutes the most significant endorsement to date for Moroccan proposal to retain control over the region, which also has backing from most European Union members and a increasing number of African partners. Resolution Structure and Key Components The document refers to Moroccan proposal as a foundation for talks. Similar to earlier measures, the text doesn't include a referendum on independence that contains independence as an choice, which constitutes the solution long supported by the pro-independence Polisario movement and its allies. Genuine self-rule under Moroccan authority could constitute a most feasible solution. Background Information The territory is a mineral-rich stretch of coastal desert the size of a US state which was under Spain's control until the mid-1970s. It is claimed by both Morocco and the Polisario Front, which operates from temporary settlements in south-western neighboring Algeria and asserts to speak for the indigenous people indigenous to the disputed territory. Decision Patterns and Global Responses The United States, which proposed the resolution, led eleven countries in voting in favor, while three nations – multiple nations – abstained. The neighboring country, Polisario's main benefactor, did not vote. Mike Waltz, the US representative to the United Nations, said the vote had been "significant" and would "build on the progress for a much-delayed peace in the region". Amar Bendjama, the Algeria's representative to the United Nations, commented that while the measure was an advancement on previous iterations, it "still has a series of deficiencies". Peacekeeping Mission and Future Assessment The resolution also renews the United Nations security operation in the territory for an additional twelve months, as has been done for over three decades. Previous extensions, however, have not included a reference to Moroccan and its allies' favored resolution. The measure calls on all sides involved to "seize this unprecedented opportunity for a enduring peace." Based on progress, it requests the secretary general to assess the operation's mandate within half a year. Regional Impact and Present Conditions The change could disrupt a long-stalled situation that for many years has eluded resolution, notwithstanding a United Nations security operation that was designed to be temporary. Protests have followed in indigenous settlements in the neighboring country this recent period, where residents have vowed not to give up their fight for self-determination. The Moroccan government administers almost all of the territory, excluding a thin strip known as the "free zone" that lies east of a constructed by Morocco sand wall. Past Background and Recent Events A 1991-era ceasefire was intended to facilitate a referendum on independence, but disagreements over participation criteria prevented it from occurring. Through time, Morocco has developed the contested region, building a deepwater port and a 656-mile road. State subsidies keep food and energy prices affordable, and the resident count has ballooned as Moroccan citizens settle in cities such as Dakhla and Laayoune. Polisario ended the ceasefire in recent years after confrontations near a route Morocco was constructing to neighboring Mauritania. The movement has subsequently regularly documented military activity, while the government has mostly rejected claims of active fighting. The United Nations describes it "limited hostilities". International Relations and Future Prospects In response to the proposed measure, Polisario stated that it would not participate in any initiative intending "to 'legitimise' Morocco's unauthorized military occupation," adding resolution "cannot happen by rewarding expansionism". The conflict constitutes the driving force in regional diplomacy. The Moroccan government views endorsement of its proposal as a benchmark for how it gauges its allies. Recently, the UN envoy suggested partitioning the territory, a suggestion neither side agreed to. He encouraged the government to specify what autonomy would involve and cautioned that a lack of development might question the United Nations' role and "if there remains opportunity and readiness for us to still be useful." The initiative to reassess the UN operation comes as the United States slashes funding for UN programmes and organizations, including peacekeeping.