UK swings behind Morocco’s autonomy proposal for Western Sahara

Key Takeaways:

• The UK supports Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal for Western Sahara.
• Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the policy change during a visit to Rabat.
• The Western Sahara dispute is one of Africa’s longest-running territorial conflicts.
• The UK views Morocco’s plan as the most pragmatic solution to the dispute.
• This marks a significant shift in Britain’s foreign policy stance.

UK Shifts Policy on Western Sahara

In a significant change of stance, the United Kingdom has thrown its support behind Morocco’s autonomy proposal for Western Sahara. The announcement marks a notable shift in Britain’s position on one of Africa’s longest-running territorial disputes.

Foreign Secretary’s Endorsement

Speaking during a visit to Rabat on Sunday, Foreign Secretary David Lammy stated that the UK considers Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal as “the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis” for resolving the dispute. Lammy’s endorsement underscores Britain’s commitment to supporting efforts that aim to bring lasting stability to the region.

A Long-Standing Dispute

Western Sahara, a region in North Africa, has been at the center of a protracted territorial conflict since the mid-1970s. The dispute began after the end of Spanish colonial rule, leading to contention between Morocco—which claims sovereignty over the territory—and the Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the Sahrawi people.

Morocco’s 2007 Autonomy Proposal

In 2007, Morocco proposed a plan that would grant limited self-rule to Western Sahara while retaining Moroccan sovereignty. The proposal suggests that the Sahrawi people would manage their local affairs democratically, including in areas such as the economy, social policies, and cultural development, while Morocco would handle defense and foreign relations. The plan has been a subject of international discussions but had not received explicit backing from the UK until now.

Implications of the UK’s Support

The UK’s backing of Morocco’s proposal signifies a significant development in international support for the autonomy plan. By calling it the most practical solution, Britain aligns itself with efforts to resolve the dispute through a compromise that can be acceptable to all parties involved. This move may influence other nations’ positions and potentially reinvigorate negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations.

Looking Ahead

The endorsement by a key international player like the UK could have meaningful implications for the future of Western Sahara. As diplomatic efforts continue, the hope is that renewed support for Morocco’s autonomy plan will pave the way for a resolution to a conflict that has lasted for decades, affecting the lives of thousands in the region.