Western Sahara: Rabat’s push to end UN oversight faces legal hurdles

Following the Russian veto of a US-backed resolution on October 30, 2026, the Moroccan Royal Cabinet has expressed a clear intention to bypass the UN framework concerning the Western Sahara conflict. Rabat seeks an end to Security Council oversight, regular reports from the Secretary-General, and the involvement of his personal envoy, aiming to move past the 1991 referendum-based mandate. However, experts point out that the non-renewal of the MINURSO mission does not legally terminate the UN's responsibility, as the Security Council retains its authority under the UN Charter. Furthermore, Western Sahara remains on the UN list of non-self-governing territories, a status falling under the jurisdiction of the General Assembly and the Committee of 24, which cannot be unilaterally dissolved by Morocco. Security experts also warn that removing international observers could lead to a dangerous military escalation, as there would be no neutral mechanism left to monitor the ceasefire, heightening the risk of regional instability.