Sahara: UN Chief recommends extension of MINURSO mandate for one year

United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, on Thursday released his annual report on the Sahara, in which he recommends that the Security Council extend the mandate of MINURSO for one year, until October 31, 2025.

As in past years, this report addresses the recent developments in the Sahara issue, both on the ground and at the international level.

It provides an overview of the evolution of the political process since last October until now.

In his comprehensive report, the UN secretary general took stock of recent efforts and challenges in the search for a solution to the Sahara conflict, while highlighting the lack of cooperation from the Polisario Front.

The 20-page document takes stock of Guterres’ attempts to restart negotiations between the four main players in this territorial dispute: Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania and the Polisario Front.

According to the report, the situation on the ground remains characterized by “low-intensity” tensions and hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario Front.

The document also addresses the security aspects of MINURSO’s action, particularly with regard to its civilian activities and the challenges faced in implementing its mandate.

The report examines the issue of human rights, highlighting assistance to the populations held against their will in the Tindouf camps, as well as the protection of human rights in the Moroccan Sahara and violations of fundamental rights and freedoms in the camps.

The document provides recommendations, including, in particular, the extension of MINURSO’s mandate for a period of 12 months.

The Security Council will meet on October 30 to adopt a new resolution on the Sahara, which will be submitted by the penholder, the USA.