Occupied El Aaiún – December 10, 2025 – Sahrawi human rights organizations have strongly condemned the “rapid deterioration” of the human rights situation in the occupied territories of Western Sahara. The groups cite escalating repressive practices by Moroccan occupation forces as a blatant violation of international agreements and norms.
In a joint statement released on International Human Rights Day, several prominent Sahrawi organizations highlighted a concerning pattern of abuse, including arbitrary arrests, torture, and restrictions on freedom of assembly and expression. They allege that Moroccan authorities are systematically suppressing dissent and targeting activists, journalists, and human rights defenders working to document and report on the situation.
“The international community can no longer ignore the escalating human rights crisis in Western Sahara,” stated a spokesperson for one of the organizations. “The Moroccan occupation forces are operating with impunity, silencing voices and denying the Sahrawi people their fundamental rights.”
The organizations reiterated their call for the decolonization of Western Sahara, emphasizing the need for a free and fair referendum on self-determination for the Sahrawi people, in accordance with United Nations resolutions. They urged the UN to strengthen its monitoring mechanisms in the territory and to hold Morocco accountable for its human rights violations.
The groups also appeal to international human rights organizations and governments worldwide to exert pressure on Morocco to end its repressive policies and to respect the rights of the Sahrawi people. They argue that a just and lasting solution to the conflict in Western Sahara can only be achieved through respect for human rights and the implementation of international law.
The statement concludes by reaffirming the commitment of Sahrawi civil society to continue advocating for human rights and self-determination in Western Sahara, despite the challenges and risks they face.
