The UN Security Council voted on October 31, 2025, to adopt a resolution regarding Western Sahara, which was drafted by the United States and supports Morocco’s autonomy plan for the disputed territory. The plan, originally presented by Morocco in 2007, proposes that Western Sahara would gain self-governing powers in local legislative, executive, and judicial matters, while Morocco would retain control of defense, foreign policy, and religion.
Details of the Security Council Vote
The resolution passed with 11 votes in favor, none against, and three abstentions from Russia, China, and Pakistan. Algeria declined to vote, voicing objections that the resolution does not reflect the UN’s doctrine on decolonization and fails to consider the long-standing call by the Polisario Front for a referendum that includes independence as an option.
Negotiation Basis and Shifting Language
The new resolution designates Morocco’s autonomy proposal as a realistic basis for future negotiations. It asks the UN Secretary-General António Guterres and his envoy, Staffan de Mistura, to facilitate talks based explicitly on this plan. This reflects a gradual shift over years of UN resolutions: previous texts in the 1990s focused on organizing referendums for self-determination. Starting in 2007, UN language began endorsing negotiations “without preconditions,” and acknowledged Morocco’s “serious and credible” efforts. Independence is no longer emphasized as the sole outcome, but autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is now explicitly promoted.
Responses from Stakeholders
Morocco has welcomed the vote as an important step, framing it as a turning point in the process of consolidating its claims over Western Sahara. Algerian officials, however, reiterated their opposition, stating the resolution falls short of the “expectations and aspirations” of Western Sahara’s population seeking self-determination. The Polisario Front also maintains its stance for a referendum, resisting negotiations based solely on autonomy.
Next Steps and Remaining Issues
The Security Council renewed the mandate for the UN peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara (MINURSO) for another year, urging all parties to pursue talks without preconditions. The US and other supporters hope negotiations can lead to a political solution. However, concerns remain about the lack of detail in Morocco’s plan, especially regarding the protection of Sahrawi rights and the principle of self-determination. Key issues still need clarification before any lasting settlement can be implemented.
This development signals increased international alignment around Morocco’s autonomy plan, but also highlights persistent divisions among stakeholders and ongoing challenges to achieving a mutually acceptable and durable resolution to the Western Sahara conflict
