Western Sahara: Extension of the MINURSO mandate, between hope and disillusionment

The extension of the MINURSO mandate: a coup d'état or simple diplomatic talks?

The UN Security Council has decided to extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) until 2025. This gesture does not only continue a diplomatic tradition; it raises questions, debates, and above all, curiosity about the real effectiveness of this mission that has been dragging on. While tensions remain palpable in this region, which is often compared to a dystopian dynamic in the middle of the desert, what does the future hold for us?

A diplomatic gesture that does not meet with unanimous approval

The renewal of the MINURSO mandate by the Security Council is not simply an administrative act. It is also a cry of alarm for the unresolved conflicts that plague the Western Sahara issue. While some see it as a glimmer of hope for a renewed dialogue, others paint a picture of a desperate situation where the struggle for self-determination seems as veiled as the sand dunes of the Sahara.

Diplomats' speeches oscillate between promise and disillusionment. On one side, there are nations calling for lasting peace, while on the other, the Polisario and Morocco are engaged in an endless war of words, turning the promise of a referendum into a tragic farce. In the UN context, this extension could also be interpreted as a wrapping paper wrapper on an unwelcome gift.

The consequences on the ground: a tension which is established

With this new mandate, MINURSO finds itself juggling the preservation of peace with the harsh realities on the ground. How will the United Nations establish productive discussions when hostilities flare up every time a group of young protesters brandish the Polisario flag? At some point, it will be necessary to admit that “treading water” was never a long-term solution.

Recently, tensions have intensified, and the risk of a return to arms hangs like a sword of Damocles. Attacks are multiplying, and each incident exacerbates historical resentments. At this rate, the MINURSO mission increasingly resembles a B-movie: lots of suspense, but no happy ending in sight. The real challenge is to prevent the negotiating stage from becoming the scene of a war of attrition.

A policy to be revived: common sense above all

So what to do with this mandate extension? Isn’t it finally time to think seriously about alternative solutions and regional dynamics? Neighboring countries, especially Algeria and Morocco, need to be indicted for their role in this context. Perhaps the United Nations should consider stepping up its efforts to include more voices in the dialogue, let’s bring the different factions to the table and make space for genuine discussions.

As the talks approach, the UN must redouble its efforts: it is time to turn rhetoric into real and effective action. Because deep down, we do not want to just juggle an extended mandate; we want to see change on the ground. A mission that extends to 2025 must not mean stagnation, but rather reinvigoration.