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UN's top security body has adopted a US-backed resolution that favors Moroccan position regarding the disputed territory, despite fierce resistance from neighboring Algeria.

Divided Decision Bolsters Morocco's Position

Although Friday's decision was divided, the measure represents the strongest support yet for Moroccan proposal to retain control over the territory, which also has backing from the majority of European Union members and a growing number of African partners.

Measure Structure and Important Components

The document refers to Morocco's proposal as a foundation for negotiation. As with earlier resolutions, the document makes no mention of a referendum on independence that includes independence as an choice, which constitutes the approach long favored by the pro-independence Polisario movement and its allies.

Real autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty could represent a very feasible solution.

Historical Context

The territory is a mineral-rich stretch of coastal arid land the area of a US state which was under Spain's control until the mid-1970s. It is asserted by both the Moroccan government and the Polisario Front, which operates from temporary settlements in southwestern Algeria and asserts to speak for the indigenous people native to the contested territory.

Decision Results and Global Responses

The United States, which sponsored the resolution, guided eleven nations in voting in support, while 3 nations – multiple nations – abstained. The neighboring country, Polisario's primary benefactor, did not vote.

The US ambassador, the American representative to the UN, said the decision had been "significant" and would "build on the progress for a much-delayed resolution in Western Sahara".

The Algerian ambassador, the Algeria's ambassador to the UN, commented that while the resolution was an advancement on earlier versions, it "still has a series of deficiencies".

Peacekeeping Mission and Future Assessment

The measure also renews the United Nations peacekeeping operation in the territory for another twelve months, as has been done for over three decades. Previous extensions, however, have not contained a reference to Morocco and its allies' preferred outcome.

The UN resolution calls on all sides participating to "take this unprecedented chance for a lasting peace." Depending on progress, it asks the secretary general to assess the operation's mandate within half a year.

Area Consequences and Current Situation

The shift could disrupt a long-stalled process that for many years has escaped settlement, notwithstanding a UN peacekeeping operation that was designed to be temporary. Demonstrations have ensued in indigenous settlements in the neighboring country this week, where people have vowed not to give up their struggle for self-determination.

The Moroccan government administers almost all of Western Sahara, excluding a narrow strip known as the "liberated area" that lies to the east of a constructed by Morocco barrier.

Historical Background and Current Developments

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

Over the years, Morocco has developed the disputed region, building a maritime facility and a long highway. State subsidies keep food and energy prices low, and the population has ballooned as Moroccans establish homes in urban areas such as major settlements.

Polisario withdrew from the truce in recent years after confrontations near a road the government was paving to Mauritania.

The movement has subsequently frequently documented military operations, while the government has mostly rejected claims of active fighting. The United Nations describes it "low-level tensions".

International Relations and Future Prospects

Reacting to the proposed measure, Polisario stated that it would not participate in any process aiming "to validate Morocco's unauthorized presence," saying resolution "cannot happen by supporting expansionism".

The situation constitutes the central issue in north African international relations. The Moroccan government views support for its proposal as a benchmark for how it assesses its allies.

Last October, the UN representative proposed dividing Western Sahara, a proposal no party accepted. He urged Morocco to specify what self-rule would involve and warned that a lack of development might question the United Nations' function and "if there remains opportunity and willingness for us to still be effective."

The push to reassess the United Nations Mission comes as the US slashes funding for United Nations initiatives and agencies, covering peacekeeping.