The United Kingdom and Western Sahara

The United Kingdom’s relationship with the Western Sahara conflict is characterized by a nuanced stance, balancing economic interests, international law obligations, and humanitarian concerns. The UK does not officially recognize Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara. This position aligns with the United Nations’ classification of Western Sahara as a non-self-governing territory awaiting decolonization. Successive UK governments have maintained that the final status of the territory must be determined through a process of self-determination in accordance with the wishes of the Sahrawi people.

However, the UK’s relationship with Morocco is significant. Morocco is a key partner in areas such as counter-terrorism, trade, and security cooperation. This multifaceted relationship influences the UK’s approach to the Western Sahara issue. While upholding the principle of self-determination, the UK also seeks to maintain positive relations with Morocco, a regional power with considerable influence.

In terms of economic activity, the UK does not actively encourage or support companies operating in Western Sahara in a way that could be perceived as legitimizing Morocco’s claim to the territory. The UK government advises British businesses to conduct thorough due diligence and be aware of the legal and ethical considerations when considering investments or commercial activities in Western Sahara. This advice underscores the importance of respecting international law and avoiding any actions that could prejudice the outcome of the UN-led peace process.

The UK has consistently supported the UN’s efforts to find a peaceful and lasting resolution to the Western Sahara conflict. It contributes financially to the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), which is tasked with monitoring the ceasefire and preparing for a potential referendum on self-determination. The UK also regularly calls for renewed negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario Front, the Sahrawi independence movement, under the auspices of the UN.

Furthermore, the UK provides humanitarian assistance to Sahrawi refugees living in camps in Algeria. These camps, established decades ago, house tens of thousands of Sahrawi people who fled Western Sahara following the Moroccan annexation. The UK’s humanitarian aid focuses on providing essential services such as food, water, and healthcare to these vulnerable populations.

In parliamentary debates and statements, UK officials consistently reiterate the importance of upholding international law and respecting the human rights of the Sahrawi people. They also urge Morocco to ensure freedom of expression and assembly in Western Sahara. The UK’s approach reflects a commitment to a just and peaceful resolution to the conflict, while also acknowledging the complex geopolitical realities of the region and the importance of its relationship with Morocco.

Ultimately, the UK’s policy on Western Sahara is guided by a commitment to international law, support for the UN peace process, and a recognition of the need to balance competing interests in a strategically important region.