UN Envoy Urges Political Solution to Decades-Long Western Sahara Dispute
Table of Contents
A renewed push for a resolution to the Western Sahara conflict is underway, with the united Nations emphasizing the need for a “political, mutually acceptable” settlement based on the self-determination of the Sahrawi people.
The UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, addressed the international community on Wednesday, November 6, 2025, in Brussels, outlining the path forward following the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797 on October 31. De mistura stressed that “the real work begins now” to achieve a lasting peace after a half-century of dispute.
Resolution 2797: A Framework for Negotiation
Resolution 2797 has been welcomed as a significant step, signaling “a renewed international dynamism” surrounding the Western Sahara issue. However, de Mistura was rapid to clarify that the resolution does not dictate a specific outcome. “Contrary to what some might suggest, the resolution ‘does not impose a predefined result’,” he stated.
This nuanced approach,he explained,is crucial. “Participation in the negotiations does not in any way imply prior approval of their conclusions,” de Mistura emphasized, adding that the UN General Secretariat has already acknowledged proposals submitted by all involved parties. The resolution, he asserted, is “important” not just for its content, but for demonstrating a renewed global commitment to resolving the protracted conflict.
Encouraging Full Participation in Talks
The core of Resolution 2797, according to de Mistura, lies in establishing a clear framework for negotiations. “It does not prescribe any predefined outcome, because a lasting solution can only result from negotiations conducted in good faith,” he explained. He reiterated the importance of active engagement, stating, “It should be remembered that participation in the negotiations does not necessarily mean prior acceptance of their conclusions, but the main thing is to participate fully.”
Looking ahead,de Mistura outlined the next steps,which involve formally inviting the parties to submit detailed proposals and suggestions. This input will be used by the UN to develop a complete program for both direct and indirect talks on the substantive issues at the heart of the dispute.
MINURSO Mandate Extended, Stability Encouraged
The UN’s commitment to the region was further demonstrated by the extension of the mandate for the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). De Mistura believes this extension “will undoubtedly contribute to creating a climate of stability in favor of the next negotiations.”
Concluding his remarks, the Personal Envoy expressed optimism, but also a sense of urgency. “The real work begins now to achieve a consensual solution to this half-century-old conflict,” he said. “I count on the parties and the members of the Security Council to remain constantly engaged in order to maintain the current positive dynamic.”
Here’s a substantive news report answering the “Why, who, What, and How” questions:
Why: The United Nations is pushing for a resolution to the decades-long Western Sahara conflict to achieve lasting peace and allow the Sahrawi people to exercise their right to self-determination. The renewed effort aims to move beyond a half-century of dispute and establish a “political, mutually acceptable” settlement.
Who: Key players include Staffan de Mistura,
