Moroccan Sahara: U.S. Institute of Peace Announces Imminent End to the Conflict
The United States Institute of Peace, a federal agency dedicated to conflict resolution and affiliated with the U.S. Congress, has predicted the imminent conclusion of the fabricated conflict over the Moroccan Sahara. The institute explained that the increasing international support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern regions has settled the matter, leaving the separatists and their sponsors with no option but to negotiate a dignified exit.
In an analysis published on August 14, authored by researcher Thomas Hill, the institute confirmed that “the conflict ended in July” following France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara. The institute considers this a culmination of a long process of international recognition, which accelerated after the United States acknowledged Moroccan sovereignty in 2020.
The institute highlighted that the change began when former U.S. President Donald Trump recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara and supported the U.S. plan for autonomy as the sole solution to the conflict. This was followed by similar recognition from 37 countries, including EU nations such as Germany and Spain.
The analysis pointed out that France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, as the former colonial power with significant foreign influence in the region, is a critical event that reinforces this international trend. The institute believes that the international community stands alongside Morocco, and the future development of the conflict will see only a few countries supporting independence.
The institute views the best solution for members of the Polisario Front and Algeria, which supports them, as negotiating with Morocco on possible peaceful terms. Morocco’s autonomy plan of 2007 is presented as a clear option, granting the Sahrawi population exclusive powers to manage their affairs.
In this context, the Polisario Front may seek monetary compensation from the United Nations in exchange for its concession and might demand additional rights under the autonomy framework. The institute noted that Algeria could dissuade the Polisario from accepting autonomy without direct gains.
However, the institute emphasizes that acknowledging this reality, despite its difficulties for those opposed to Morocco’s territorial integrity, may be a step towards a more stable regional final resolution. It believes that continued denial of this change will only lead to less suitable solutions in the future, indicating that one of the oldest conflicts in Africa is nearing its end, with or without the engagement of the Polisario and its supporter, Algeria.
