Western Sahara Conflict: Ongoing Dispute Between Morocco and Polisario Front

What's Happening?

Western Sahara, a sparsely populated desert region on Africa's northwest coast, remains a focal point of territorial conflict between Morocco and the indigenous Sahrawi people, represented by the Polisario Front. Originally a Spanish colony, the area was annexed by Morocco in 1975, leading to a prolonged dispute. The Polisario Front declared the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) in 1976, which is recognized by many governments and is a member of the African Union. Despite a UN-brokered ceasefire in 1991, a promised referendum on independence has not occurred. The region is rich in natural resources, including phosphates and fishing grounds, with potential offshore oil deposits.

Why It's Important?

The conflict over Western Sahara has significant implications for regional stability and international relations. The area's natural resources, such as phosphates and potential oil reserves, are economically valuable, making control over the territory strategically important. The ongoing dispute affects diplomatic relations, particularly between Morocco and Algeria, which supports the Polisario Front. The lack of resolution also impacts the Sahrawi people's quest for self-determination, a principle enshrined in international law. The situation remains a point of contention within the African Union and affects Morocco's diplomatic relations with other countries.