Ivory coast backs Morocco’s Sahara autonomy plan at un seminar

Flags of Morocco and Ivory Coast © DR

During a high-level regional seminar of the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization (C24) in Managua, Ivory Coast firmly reaffirmed its unwavering support for Morocco’s proposed autonomy initiative to resolve the longstanding Sahara dispute.

Ivorian officials underscored the initiative’s strong legitimacy, noting its endorsement by nearly 130 countries and its alignment with international law principles and UN resolutions. A key highlight was the plan’s recognition in UN Security Council Resolution 2797, adopted in 2025.

Why Ivory Coast stands behind the autonomy plan

The Ivorian delegation emphasized that the proposal grants southern provinces meaningful self-management in political and economic spheres. They pointed to regular democratic elections and the involvement of local representatives in international forums as tangible signs of progress.

Additionally, Abidjan praised advancements in human rights, particularly through regional commissions and collaboration with relevant UN mechanisms. However, concerns were raised about the humanitarian situation in the Tindouf camps, with a call for accurate population registration to ensure transparency.

The statement concluded with a strong call for a political solution under the exclusive auspices of the United Nations, urging all parties to embrace compromise and pragmatic realism for a lasting resolution.