De Mistura: Sahrawi Self-Determination Key to Resolving Western Sahara Conflict
The Personal Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, stated that any settlement to the Western Sahara conflict, which has lasted for half a century, must remain “political, mutually acceptable, and based on the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination.”
During a press briefing on Wednesday in Brussels, De Mistura commented for the first time on Resolution 2797, adopted by the UN Security Council on October 31, while welcoming “a renewed international momentum” around the issue.
“The real work begins now” to bring the parties to a negotiated solution in line with international law, he said.
He added that, contrary to what some may suggest, the resolution “does not impose a predetermined outcome.”
“Participation in negotiations does not imply prior approval of their conclusions,” De Mistura noted, adding that the UN Secretariat has taken note of the proposals presented by both parties.
He emphasized that Resolution 2797 is “important,” not only in its content but also because it reflects a renewed international determination to resolve a conflict that has lasted over fifty years.
“Resolution 2797, in its carefully worded paragraphs, establishes a framework for negotiations. It does not prescribe a predetermined result, because a lasting solution can only emerge from negotiations conducted in good faith,” he explained.
“It should be recalled that taking part in negotiations does not necessarily mean accepting their outcome in advance, but the essential point is to participate fully,” he added.
De Mistura further stated that, given the support and substantial mandate granted by Resolution 2797 to the Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy, the next step will be to invite the parties to “submit their proposals and suggestions, so that the UN can establish a general program for direct or, if necessary, indirect talks on core issues.”
He also welcomed the extension of the MINURSO mandate until October 2026. “This will undoubtedly help create a stable environment for upcoming negotiations,” he said.
“The real work begins now to reach a consensual solution to this conflict that has lasted for half a century. I am counting on the parties and on members of the Security Council to remain continuously committed to maintaining the current positive momentum,” concluded the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara.
