France’s official recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara: A step towards enhancing stability and unity in North Africa?

I have been interested in the Western Sahara conflict for the past few years, sparked by an intense discussion with the Moroccan Ambassador to Finland, following my previous stance on the matter. Our respectful dialogue led to my participation in two debates organized in Helsinki. As a Finnish journalist, it was quite challenging to grasp all aspects of this Cold War-era legacy. After the war in Ukraine and the pervasive discourse on the territorial integrity of sovereign states, I began to understand why this issue is so crucial for Morocco and why it was consistently raised by almost all the Moroccans I had the opportunity to speak with in Finland. In these discussions, the role of colonial powers was often highlighted, both in the conflict's origins and its resolution. Spain, the former colonizer of the Saharan territory, made on April 7, 2022, a significant decision to officially recognize the autonomy plan presented by Morocco in 2007 as the only viable solution under Moroccan sovereignty. This was a strategic and historical acknowledgment.

On July 30, while preparing to attend the Throne Day, the National Day of Morocco celebrated in Helsinki, I encountered media reports claiming that France had decided to officially recognize Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara territory. What implications does this move have for conflict resolution and regional stability, and how might it contribute to the preservation of the territorial integrity of sovereign states and the fight against separatism? When developing my insights on this new development, my thoughts also go to the population of the Tindouf Camps, who would probably be the main beneficiaries of this decision and the definitive resolution of the conflict.

On July 30, 2024, in a significant diplomatic letter, the French President officially communicated to the King of Morocco that France recognizes the sovereignty of Morocco over Western Sahara. This declaration marks a pivotal development in international relations concerning the North African region and is poised to have extensive implications for regional stability and international diplomatic alignments.

According to analyses from French and Moroccan media outlets, the letter sent by the French President to the Moroccan King emphasizes a firm position affirming that "the current and future status of Western Sahara is embedded within Moroccan sovereignty." I think that the wording “present” and “future” holds a profound wise political message. Why? Because this declaration goes beyond courtesy, reflecting a profound historical and legal comprehension of the Sahara matter. Leveraging its perspective and comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding this issue, France affirms Morocco’s legitimate claims over Western Sahara.

This support is based on Morocco’s autonomy plan proposed in 2007, which France views as the only framework for a negotiated resolution in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions. From a Finnish perspective, one can refer to the Åland Islands case, which likely inspired the authors of the Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara at some point.

Many consulted sources suggest that the announcement by France holds political and strategic significance, as it originates from a member of the UN Security Council and a prominent player on the global political stage, backing an unprecedented international momentum for the territorial integrity of Morocco. The unwavering French support in this matter not only strengthens Morocco’s position but also serves as a model for other situations. By aligning its international policies with this stance, France confirms the credibility of Morocco’s claims to sovereignty, elevating them from a regional discussion to a globally recognized standpoint.

France’s backing of Moroccan sovereignty in Western Sahara extends beyond a simple diplomatic move. It signifies the commitment of an EU member to regional peace. By opposing separatism and advocating for unity, France’s position plays a role in averting the disintegration of states in North Africa. This standpoint holds importance in a region characterized by conflicts and instability, offering a pathway toward resolutions and collaborative regional interactions.

In light of this, Marine Le Pen, the leader of the French Far Right party, believes that her country “has been slow to acknowledge Morocco’s enduring efforts over decades, towards stabilizing and securing Western Sahara as a part of the Cherifian Kingdom.” She emphasizes the need to support initiatives led by authorities that contribute to consolidating peace in this region and fostering its development.

For many observers, the French stance is not an isolated policy choice but rather reflects an institutional position that surpasses political shifts. France’s consistent support demonstrates a bond with Morocco and the region’s stability. The timing of this declaration during the Feast of the Throne, the National Day of Morocco, also celebrated in Helsinki, emphasizes the backing, showcasing France’s legitimate foreign policy approach.

Experts in bilateral relations between France and its former colony believe that France’s endorsement of sovereignty reinvigorates the alliance between the two nations and strengthens their cultural connections, sparking renewed collaboration. This move is expected to bolster security and cultural relationships, promoting an effort in developing the Sahara region and potentially enhancing stability and prosperity in the Maghreb region.

With its unwavering position, France aligns itself with the majority of UN member states, including the United States and Spain, in acknowledging Morocco’s sovereignty over western territories and supporting the Autonomy Plan as a viable and only solution to this conflict inherited from the Cold War era dynamics. Among these countries are 16 EU member states who clearly stated their support to the autonomy.

When analyzing the facts from a Nordic perspective, it is clear that the European and international momentum over the Autonomy solution under the sovereignty of Morocco doesn't favor either side in the conflict. It is instead a practical step towards a human solution for the Tindouf camps population, creating a more stable and united North African region, establishing an important example for global diplomacy in contested areas, particularly preserving the national unity and territorial integrity of sovereign states.