Morocco to Update and Expand Western Sahara Autonomy Plan
King Mohammed VI announced that Morocco will “update and expand” its autonomy plan for Western Sahara. He made the announcement during a nationally televised speech on Friday evening. This signals the “decisive phase” of the UN-led process, according to the King.
The address followed the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797. The resolution extended MINURSO’s mandate until October 2026. It reaffirmed Morocco’s initiative as the most “genuine and credible” basis for a political settlement.
Commitment to the UN Process
King Mohammed VI stated that Morocco is entering a decisive phase. He noted that the Security Council resolution defines principles for resolving the conflict. The resolution respects Morocco’s legitimate rights, he emphasized.
Morocco will update and detail the Autonomy Proposal for submission to the UN, the King affirmed. He asserted that this is a realistic solution and must be the only negotiation basis.
The Autonomy Plan
These remarks highlight a defining moment in Morocco’s approach to the Western Sahara issue. They reflect a confident national strategy. The Autonomy Plan, presented to the UN in 2007, remains central to Morocco’s vision.
The plan grants the southern provinces wide self-governance within Moroccan sovereignty. It preserves the country’s unity and stability.
The King’s call to update the plan indicates a shift towards operational implementation. This aims to transform the proposal into a complete governance framework for the UN.
Growing International Support
UN Security Council Resolution
The Security Council resolution proves the growing international endorsement of Morocco’s stance. Eleven member states, including the US, UK, and France, voted in favor.
The resolution depicted the autonomy plan as a “realistic and credible” path. It urged all parties to engage without preconditions.
Strengthening Morocco’s Position
The King insisted that the updated plan should be the only negotiation basis. This anchors Morocco’s stance within international legitimacy. It also narrows the scope of future talks.
The King’s statement reaffirms that any political process must respect Morocco’s sovereignty. This includes the country’s “legitimate rights” over its southern territories.
The King’s directive encourages the government to build local governance structures. These structures should mirror local representation while respecting national sovereignty. This also positions Morocco as a regional actor capable of balancing stability and diplomacy.
Diplomatic Efforts
Morocco has consistently put in diplomatic effort over the years to get to this point. This transformed its Autonomy Plan into a widely supported solution. Over 120 countries now endorse it as a viable framework.
Spain, Germany, and France, alongside European partners, have recognized Morocco’s sovereignty. Numerous African countries have opened consulates in Laayoune and Dakhla.
Across the Arab world, support for Morocco’s territorial integrity remains constant. Nearly 50 countries have withdrawn recognition of the self-proclaimed SADR.
Backed by alliances and strategic partners such as France and the US, Morocco stands closer to securing a final resolution. The resolution would uphold its sovereignty and stability.
