Kampala, Uganda – The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) has reiterated its unwavering support for the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination. This reaffirmation came during the 19th Ministerial Meeting of the NAM, held in Kampala on October 15th and 16th.
The final document of the meeting, obtained by DZWatch, underscores the movement’s continued commitment to supporting the efforts of the United Nations Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy for Western Sahara. These efforts are aimed at achieving a political solution that guarantees the Sahrawi people’s right to freely determine their own future.
The NAM emphasized that all options available to the Sahrawi people in exercising their right to self-determination remain valid, provided they align with the freely expressed will of the people and adhere to the principles enshrined in the resolutions of the UN General Assembly.
This declaration reinforces the NAM’s long-standing position on the Western Sahara issue, a disputed territory in the Maghreb region. The movement, comprised of 120 developing countries, has historically advocated for the rights of peoples under colonial or foreign occupation.
The renewed commitment from the NAM comes at a crucial time, as diplomatic efforts to resolve the Western Sahara conflict continue. The UN has been working to facilitate negotiations between the parties involved, seeking a just and lasting solution that respects the aspirations of the Sahrawi people.
The NAM’s statement serves as a significant boost for the Polisario Front, which represents the Sahrawi people and seeks independence for Western Sahara. It also puts pressure on Morocco, which claims sovereignty over the territory.
The international community continues to closely monitor the situation in Western Sahara, hoping for a peaceful resolution that upholds the principles of international law and respects the rights of all parties involved.
