Restructuring of MINURSO in Western Sahara
A new United Nations draft resolution proposes a significant restructuring of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). According to the draft resolution circulated among Security Council members, it is proposed to end the mission’s traditional peacekeeping functions as of April 30, 2027.
This change marks a shift in international policy regarding the conflict in Western Sahara, which for decades has been the scene of tensions between Morocco and the Polisario Front. According to the document, as of May 1, 2027, MINURSO would be transformed into a special political mission with a mandate extending until October 31 of that year, focusing on supporting the political process rather than ensuring stability through a military presence.
The resolution reaffirms the UN’s commitment to negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict, citing the autonomy proposal presented and updated by Morocco as the only possible solution. This approach seeks to guide the parties toward an agreement that is fair, lasting, and acceptable—a complex balance that must respect both Morocco’s sovereignty and international law, including the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination.
Reduction of Military Personnel
One of the most significant measures outlined in the draft is the gradual reduction of MINURSO’s military component. It is proposed that, by January 31, 2027, the mission reduce its military personnel by at least half, while closing and integrating certain operational bases.
This reduction reflects a strategic shift in how the UN intends to address the conflict, moving from a traditional peacekeeping framework with forces on the ground to a new, more diplomatic and political model. Furthermore, the Secretary-General is asked to present a detailed plan regarding the resources, functions, and structure of the political mission that would replace MINURSO in its current form.
The UN and the United States Coordinate Negotiations
The draft resolution expresses clear support for both the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy for the Sahrawi conflict, Staffan de Mistura, as well as for the diplomatic efforts of the United States. These actors play a central role in facilitating negotiations between Morocco, the Polisario Front, Algeria, and Mauritania.
Furthermore, it urges the parties to cooperate constructively with the dialogue facilitators and to base their responses on the Moroccan proposal for autonomy. The personal envoy’s mandate includes consulting with various sectors of Sahrawi society, especially those excluded from official talks, to ensure that these voices are taken into account in the political process.
Humanitarian and Refugee Situation
The draft also addresses the humanitarian crisis in the Sahrawi refugee camps, where the situation remains concerning due to ongoing displacement and the lack of decent living conditions for the affected population. The text calls on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to complete a comprehensive registration of refugees in Tindouf within six months, in accordance with international law and the agency’s regulations.
It also emphasizes the importance of ensuring unrestricted access and freedom of movement in the area, as well as the need to channel international funding toward permanent and voluntary solutions. This responds to the urgent need to improve living conditions and meet the basic needs of the displaced, who have been sidelined in the protracted conflict.
Implications of the New Proposals
The proposals contained in this draft resolution mark a turning point in the nature of the UN’s presence in Western Sahara. The shift from a peacekeeping mission to one with a political focus signals a change in the international strategy for addressing the conflict, prioritizing negotiation and direct diplomacy over military deployment.
However, the effectiveness of this strategy will depend largely on official approval by the Security Council, which is set to vote on the extension of MINURSO’s mandate in the near future. The political debate in this area is complex, given the historical tensions and conflicting interests of the parties involved, as well as the active role of external actors such as the United States.