Forty nations have united in a strong diplomatic stance at the United Nations, reaffirming their steadfast support for Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara provinces.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the Central African Republic read a joint statement during the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva.
“We reaffirm our unwavering support for the Kingdom of Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces,” the diplomat stated. The group also expressed support for Morocco's autonomy proposal, which the UN Security Council has recognized as "serious and credible."
The diplomat emphasized the importance of maintaining the "strictly bilateral nature of interactions" between member states, the HRC, and the High Commissioner, urging that these discussions stay focused on their primary mission and avoid becoming a platform for unproductive political debates.
He pointed to the opening of multiple consulates in Dakhla and Laayoune as tangible proof of increasing global backing, which he described as crucial for strengthening regional cooperation, boosting investment, and driving development at both regional and continental levels. The coalition also reminded the HRC that the Sahara issue is under the exclusive jurisdiction of the UN Security Council.
Describing Morocco’s autonomy plan as "realistic and pragmatic," the statement emphasized it as a foundation for achieving a lasting, consensus-based solution.
The coalition further recognized Morocco's "sincere and continuous efforts" toward peace and stability, highlighting the country’s proactive engagement with the UN human rights system, particularly the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), to uphold and promote human rights across its territory.
The statement also acknowledged the positive role of Morocco’s National and Regional Human Rights Commissions in Dakhla and Laayoune, as well as the kingdom's interactions with the UN’s special procedures mechanisms.
The group reiterated its support for efforts to revive the UN political process, notably through the Geneva roundtable discussions, in line with relevant resolutions, including Resolution 2756 adopted in October 2024.
For the nations involved in this coalition, resolving the regional dispute is seen as vital for fulfilling the aspirations of African and Arab peoples for greater integration and development—goals Morocco has been dedicated to for years.
The Central African diplomat concluded by inviting delegations to review the full declaration, reaffirming the coalition's commitment to a peaceful, consensus-based resolution of the dispute, centered on Morocco’s initiative.