International experts and journalists concur that the recent UN Security Council resolution 2797/2025 reiterates the fundamental right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination. The resolution emphasizes that a final resolution to the Western Sahara dispute must align with the principles and objectives of the UN Charter.
Legal expert Mohamed Boukhari clarified that interpretations circulating in some media outlets misrepresent the resolution’s essence. The resolution extends the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) until October 31, 2026, while implicitly rejecting Moroccan claims of sovereignty.
Boukhari emphasized that the Security Council has not endorsed the concept of alleged ‘Moroccan sovereignty’ over the territory. Furthermore, the resolution does not consider Morocco’s autonomy proposal as the ‘sole basis for a solution,’ a point explicitly excluded after extensive negotiations.
Contrary to claims promoted by Moroccan sources, the Security Council has not adopted Morocco’s autonomy proposal as a foundation for resolving the conflict. The resolution underscores that any solution must adhere to the principles of the UN Charter, with unwavering commitment to the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination.
From an international law perspective, the Moroccan proposal carries no weight against the UN Charter’s principles and objectives. It also contradicts resolutions and opinions from international and regional bodies and courts concerning Western Sahara, which do not recognize Moroccan sovereignty and consistently affirm the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination and independence.
Boukhari concludes that Security Council resolution 2797, by rejecting unilateral Moroccan claims and the notion of ‘autonomy’ as the ‘sole basis for a solution,’ establishes a clear framework for parties to reach a final agreement consistent with UN principles, particularly the right to self-determination. This decision closes the door on attempts to impose a solution based on anything other than Sahrawi self-determination. The international community’s focus remains on facilitating a genuine and lasting resolution that respects the will of the Sahrawi people.
