Western Sahara: US Draft Resolution Faces Criticism Over Imbalance
The "zero draft" submitted by the US on October 20, 2026, regarding the MINURSO mandate in Western Sahara is facing backlash for its perceived bias. Critics argue that the document adopts Morocco's position entirely, undermining the neutrality required by UN principles. The proposal frames autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as the only solution, proposes renaming the mission to exclude the term "referendum" (MINUSO), and calls for a 50% reduction in peacekeeping personnel. Furthermore, the draft is criticized for its asymmetric treatment of the conflict—condemning specific attacks while ignoring Moroccan actions—and for challenging the status of the Polisario Front as the sole representative of the Sahrawi people. Members of the Security Council are expected to push for substantive amendments to restore a balanced approach.
