Côte d’Ivoire backs Morocco’s autonomy plan for Sahara dispute

The flags of Morocco and Côte d'Ivoire © DRThe flags of Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire © DR

Côte d’Ivoire reaffirms strong support for Morocco’s Sahara autonomy initiative

During a United Nations regional seminar of the Special Committee on Decolonization (C24) held in Managua, the Ivorian delegation once again voiced its unwavering backing for Morocco’s autonomy proposal aimed at resolving the longstanding Sahara dispute.

International recognition and legal alignment highlighted

Ivorian officials emphasized the credibility of this initiative, which has garnered support from nearly 130 countries worldwide. They underscored its full compliance with international law principles and relevant UN resolutions, particularly pointing to the endorsement of the plan in UN Security Council Resolution 2797 adopted in 2025.

Local governance and human rights progress emphasized

According to the Ivorian representatives, the autonomy framework empowers local populations in southern provinces to actively participate in managing their own affairs, both politically and economically. They noted the consistent organization of democratic elections and the involvement of local representatives in international forums.

The delegation also praised recent human rights advancements in the region, citing the effective role of regional commissions and collaboration with relevant UN mechanisms. Concurrently, Abidjan raised concerns about the situation in the Tindouf camps, urging the need for an accurate population census.

Call for political compromise under UN auspices

The Ivorian government reiterated its commitment to a political solution exclusively under UN supervision, urging all parties to prioritize compromise and realism to achieve a lasting resolution to the conflict.