UK backs Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara

Morocco has long claimed Western Sahara, a mineral-rich territory once a Spanish colony, but it has been contested by the pro-independence Polisario Front, which receives backing from Algeria. On June 1, 2025, British Foreign Minister David Lammy announced that the United Kingdom would be shifting its long-held position and backing Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara, describing its autonomy proposal as the most credible and viable solution to the conflict. This decision marks a significant policy change, as the UK previously advocated for self-determination for the territory. The British government emphasized its support during a joint press conference in Rabat, where Lammy stressed the urgency for a resolution, which he believes would enhance stability in North Africa. Lammy reiterated that the United Kingdom would maintain its commitment to the United Nations-led peace process while encouraging Morocco to provide further details on the autonomy framework for the region. Following this announcement, Algeria expressed dissatisfaction, criticizing the British position as lacking substance to facilitate a serious resolution. Moreover, the UK's decision aligns with broader international trends, as other countries such as France, Spain, and Germany have also voiced support for Morocco's autonomy proposal, thereby emboldening Rabat's claim to the region. In past negotiations, Morocco has consistently rejected any call for a referendum that involves independence and instead promotes its proposal of autonomy as the only sustainable solution to the long-standing dispute. Lammy called 2025 a pivotal year for resolving the issue, which has seen decades of conflict and stalled negotiations. The United Nations has maintained a peacekeeping presence in the area since 1991 to foster dialogue and readiness for a potential referendum, though Morocco has opposed any options that do not align with its autonomy plan. In light of recent developments and Morocco's ongoing efforts for international support, the stage may be set for renewed discussions regarding the territorial status of Western Sahara.