Algiers – The issue of Western Sahara has gained significant traction in major international media outlets, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Morocco’s invasion of the Western Sahara and following the recent United Nations Security Council resolution.
The increased media attention comes in the wake of the Security Council’s decision, which effectively thwarted attempts by the Moroccan regime (Makhzen) to secure a UN resolution recognizing its alleged sovereignty over the territory. The Western Sahara remains a territory awaiting decolonization, according to international law.
Reports highlight the ongoing struggle of the Sahrawi people for self-determination, their plight often overlooked amidst regional geopolitical complexities. Various news organizations have featured interviews with Sahrawi activists, shedding light on their experiences in refugee camps and under Moroccan administration. These accounts underscore the enduring desire for a referendum on independence, a right promised decades ago but yet to be fulfilled.
The renewed media focus also examines the economic implications of the conflict, particularly concerning the exploitation of natural resources in the Western Sahara. Several reports have questioned the legality and ethical considerations surrounding foreign companies operating in the region, further amplifying the controversy surrounding the disputed territory.
The increased coverage signals a potential shift in international awareness of the Western Sahara issue, potentially paving the way for renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting resolution to the conflict. The 50th anniversary serves as a stark reminder of the unfulfilled promises and the continued suffering of the Sahrawi people, urging the international community to take decisive action.
