United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres released his annual report on the Moroccan Sahara issue on Thursday. In this report, Guterres recommended that the Security Council extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) for an additional year, until October 31, 2025.
As in previous years, the report addresses recent developments in the Moroccan Sahara issue, both on the ground and at the international level. It also provides an overview of the evolution of the political process from last October until now.
The report also touches on security aspects related to MINURSO’s work, particularly regarding its civilian activities and the challenges facing the implementation of its mandate.
Furthermore, the report discusses the human rights issue, highlighting the assistance provided to populations held 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 report concludes with recommendations, most notably the extension of MINURSO’s mandate for 12 months.
The Security Council is scheduled to meet on October 30 to adopt the new resolution on the Moroccan Sahara, which will be presented by the American penholder.
This report comes in the context of ongoing international efforts to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the Sahara issue, with the continued important role played by the MINURSO mission in the region.