Ivory coast backs Morocco’s autonomy plan for western Sahara at un forum

During a recent regional seminar of the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization (C24) in Managua, Nicaragua, the Ivory Coast reaffirmed its unwavering support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative aimed at resolving the long-standing regional dispute over Western Sahara.

The Ivorian delegation emphasized that this initiative, backed by nearly 130 countries—including three permanent members of the UN Security Council—aligns with international law, the UN Charter, and pertinent resolutions of the General Assembly.

Highlighting the significance of Resolution 2797 adopted by the Security Council in 2025, the delegation underscored how the autonomy plan respects the unique characteristics of Western Sahara. It offers residents the opportunity to actively shape the political and socio-economic landscape of their region, they noted.

Politically, the plan grants local and national communities the freedom to elect their representatives through regular democratic elections across Morocco. The delegation praised the participation of elected officials from Western Sahara in these polls, reinforcing the plan’s democratic legitimacy.

On the economic front, the Ivorian representatives pointed out that the populations of Morocco’s southern provinces have directly benefited from substantial investments made under the 2015 New Development Model. These efforts have not only improved living standards but also significantly boosted the Human Development Index in the region.

The delegation also commended Morocco’s efforts to promote and protect human rights, citing the establishment of regional commissions of the National Human Rights Council in Laâyoune and Dakhla, as well as collaboration with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

In concluding, the Ivory Coast hailed Morocco’s remarkable efforts to achieve a mutually acceptable resolution to the dispute. These constructive actions, they argued, underscore the credibility and viability of the autonomy initiative, which empowers Western Sahara’s residents with substantial governance rights.