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Self-Determination and the Decolonization Process of Western Sahara

The Western Sahara conflict, located in northwest Africa, is one of the oldest and most complex decolonization issues in the world. Since Spain's departure in 1976, the territory has been disputed between Morocco and the Polisario Front, a Sahrawi national liberation movement. This article explores the genesis of the conflict, key developments, UN resolutions, and the current situation, highlighting the right to self-determination for the Sahrawi people and the obstacles to peace, particularly the role of corruption in blocking the peace process by Morocco.

Genesis of the Conflict

Spanish Colonial Period

Western Sahara was a Spanish colony since the late 19th century. In 1963, the UN included the territory on the list of non-self-governing territories, thereby recognizing the right of its inhabitants to self-determination (UN General Assembly Resolution 1514). Calls for decolonization intensified in the 1960s and 1970s as liberation movements in Africa gained influence.

The Emergence of the Polisario Front

In 1973, the Polisario Front (Popular Front for the Liberation of Saguia el-Hamra and Rio de Oro) was founded to fight for the independence of Western Sahara. In 1975, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued an advisory opinion stating that there were no territorial sovereignty ties between Morocco, Mauritania, and Western Sahara, thus supporting the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination.

The Green March and Spanish Withdrawal

In November 1975, Morocco launched the "Green March," a demonstration of force that led to the Madrid Agreement. This agreement divided Western Sahara between Morocco and Mauritania, but it was not recognized by the UN. In 1976, Spain withdrew from the territory, leaving Western Sahara in a state of open conflict.

Key Developments in the Conflict

War and Stalemate

War between Morocco and the Polisario Front broke out in 1976 and lasted until a ceasefire in 1991, mediated by the UN. Mauritania withdrew from the conflict in 1979, leaving Morocco and the Polisario Front as the main parties. The 1991 ceasefire was accompanied by the creation of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), tasked with overseeing a self-determination referendum.

Failures of Referendums

Despite UN efforts, the referendum has never taken place due to disagreements over voter eligibility and political obstacles. UN Security Council resolutions, such as Resolution 690 (1991) establishing MINURSO, and Resolution 1359 (2001) supporting efforts for a political solution, have not succeeded in breaking the deadlock.

Corruption as an Obstacle to the Peace Process

Political and Economic Influence

Morocco has employed various strategies to block the peace process, including corruption. It has been accused of using its economic resources to influence international and regional actors. Reports suggest that Morocco has offered economic benefits and investment opportunities in exchange for political support for its position on Western Sahara.

Buying Influence at the International Level

Corruption allegations also involve Morocco's attempts to buy influence within international institutions. For instance, diplomats and UN officials have reportedly been targeted with financial offers or perks to favor Moroccan interests and delay the referendum process.

Pressure on Companies and Countries

Morocco also exerts significant pressure on companies and countries to not recognize the Polisario Front or the independence of Western Sahara. For example, several countries have revised their positions after receiving investments or promises of economic partnerships with Morocco.

Impact on UN Resolutions

This corruption and influence have directly impacted the adoption and implementation of UN resolutions. Efforts to push for a referendum have been diluted or thwarted by diplomatic maneuvers, further delaying the possibility for the Sahrawi people to determine their own future.

UN Resolutions

The UN has adopted several important resolutions regarding Western Sahara:

  • Resolution 1514 (1960): Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, affirming the right of peoples to self-determination.
  • Resolution 2072 (1965): Calling on Spain to decolonize Western Sahara.
  • Resolution 690 (1991): Establishing MINURSO to organize a self-determination referendum.
  • Resolution 1359 (2001): Calling for renewed efforts to resolve the conflict and support the UN-led peace process.

Current Situation

Western Sahara remains divided, with Morocco controlling about 80% of the territory, including major cities and natural resources, while the Polisario Front controls the desert areas to the east. In 2020, tensions flared when the Polisario Front declared the ceasefire over after a Moroccan military intervention in a buffer zone.

International and Political Recognition

In December 2020, the United States recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in exchange for Morocco normalizing relations with Israel. This move was controversial and not followed by other major powers. The UN continues to support a political process for a mutually acceptable solution that allows for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people.

Conclusion

The Western Sahara conflict remains one of the last vestiges of the decolonization process in Africa. Despite UN resolutions and diplomatic efforts, the right to self-determination for the Sahrawi people remains unrealized. A durable solution requires renewed commitment from the international community to promote constructive dialogue and respect the legitimate aspirations of the Sahrawi people. The role of corruption in blocking the peace process underscores the importance of transparency and integrity in mediation and conflict resolution efforts.

References

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