Geneva, 11 September 2024 – As Morocco faces persistent challenges to its sovereignty over the Sahara, some forty countries have recently reaffirmed their unwavering support for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom. This statement came during the 57th session of the Human Rights Council (HRC) held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.
The Ambassador of the Dominican Republic, Hector Virgilio Alcántara, expressed, on behalf of this group of countries, their support for Morocco and its constructive cooperation with the UN human rights system. He welcomed Morocco’s continued commitment to respecting human rights throughout its territory and stressed the importance of interactions with the UN human rights protection mechanisms.
This statement also underlines the importance of the UN Security Council resolutions on the Sahara dispute, highlighting the crucial role of the National and Regional Human Rights Commissions in Dakhla and Laayoune. The group also welcomed the opening of Consulates General by many countries in these cities, highlighting their positive impact on regional development and economic cooperation.
Furthermore, it was recalled that the Sahara issue is a political dispute that must be addressed by the Security Council, which recognizes the autonomy initiative presented by Morocco as a credible and serious solution. Efforts to revive the exclusively UN political process, based on the Security Council resolutions and the Geneva round tables, were also supported by this group of countries.
Ultimately, it is clear that the resolution of this regional dispute is of paramount importance for the integration and development of African and Arab peoples. Morocco continues to aim for a political, realistic and lasting solution, striving to reach a compromise to meet the legitimate aspirations of the populations concerned. Morocco’s commitment and perseverance in this process deserve to be commended and supported by the international community.