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The UN Security Council has adopted a US-backed measure that supports Morocco's position regarding the disputed Western Sahara, notwithstanding strong opposition from Algeria.

Split Vote Bolsters Morocco's Position

Although the recent decision was divided, the measure represents the most significant support yet for Moroccan plan to maintain control over the region, which also enjoys backing from most European Union countries and a growing number of African nation partners.

Measure Framework and Important Elements

The document refers to Morocco's plan as a basis for negotiation. Similar to earlier resolutions, the document makes no mention of a vote on independence that contains sovereignty as an choice, which constitutes the approach traditionally favored by the pro-independence Polisario movement and its supporters.

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

Background Context

Western Sahara is a phosphate-rich area of coastline desert the size of Colorado which was under Spanish control until 1975. It is claimed by both Morocco and the Polisario Front, which functions from temporary settlements in south-western neighboring Algeria and claims to represent the Sahrawi people native to the disputed territory.

Decision Results and Global Responses

The United States, which sponsored the measure, guided eleven countries in deciding in support, while three nations – multiple nations – abstained. Algeria, Polisario's main benefactor, did not participate.

The US ambassador, the US ambassador to the UN, said the vote had been "historic" and would "advance the progress for a much-delayed resolution in Western Sahara".

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

Security Mission and Future Review

The measure also extends the United Nations security operation in Western Sahara for an additional twelve months, as has been implemented for over three decades. Prior renewals, though, have not included a mention to Morocco and its supporters' preferred resolution.

The measure urges all parties participating to "seize this unique chance for a enduring peace." Based on progress, it requests the UN leader to review the peacekeeping mission's authority within half a year.

Area Impact and Current Situation

The shift could unsettle a long-stalled process that for decades has escaped settlement, notwithstanding a UN peacekeeping operation that was intended to be temporary. Protests have followed in Sahrawi settlements in Algeria this week, where residents have vowed not to abandon their fight for self-determination.

Morocco administers almost all of the territory, except for a narrow area called the "free zone" that lies to the east of a constructed by Morocco barrier.

Past Background and Current Developments

A 1991 ceasefire was intended to pave the way for a referendum on independence, but fighting over voter eligibility prevented it from taking place.

Through time, the Moroccan government has developed the contested region, building a maritime facility and a long highway. Government support keep basic commodity prices low, and the population has ballooned as Moroccans establish homes in urban areas such as Dakhla and Laayoune.

Polisario withdrew from the truce in recent years after clashes near a road Morocco was constructing to Mauritania.

The group has subsequently frequently reported military operations, while the government has mostly denied open conflict. The United Nations describes it "low-level tensions".

International Relations and Future Possibilities

In response to the proposed measure, Polisario stated that it would not join any initiative intending "to 'legitimise' Moroccan unauthorized presence," saying peace "cannot happen by rewarding territorial claims".

The situation constitutes the driving force in north African international relations. Morocco views endorsement of its proposal as a standard for how it assesses its allies.

Recently, the UN representative proposed dividing Western Sahara, a suggestion neither side accepted. He urged Morocco to specify what autonomy would involve and cautioned that a lack of progress might question the UN's function and "whether there is space and readiness for us to still be effective."

The push to review the UN operation comes as the United States slashes funding for United Nations initiatives and organizations, covering security operations.