Polisario Representative Slams France for Ignoring Sahrawi Right to Self-Determination
The Polisario Front’s representative in France, Mohamed Ali Zerouali, strongly criticized the French government’s stance on Western Sahara, accusing it of disregarding the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination and independence, as outlined by UN resolutions and the International Court of Justice.
Speaking at a political, media, and cultural event organized by the French newspaper L’Humanité Catalane over the past two days near the city of Perpignan, Zerouali described the French official position as “negative and contrary to international law.”
He argued that France’s stance undermines its credibility as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, stating, “It places France under increased responsibility to uphold and protect international legitimacy, not violate it.”
The Sahrawi diplomat accused France of applying “double standards” in its foreign policy, supporting the rights of some peoples while ignoring them in Western Sahara. This approach, he said, “erodes the trust of colonized peoples in France’s neutrality and supports Morocco’s occupation narrative at the expense of international law and human rights.”
He further described this policy as “a sign of France’s diplomatic deviation from the principles it claims to defend, such as freedom and human rights.”
Zerouali renewed his call on French political forces and civil society organizations to continue exposing international complicity and to defend the Sahrawi people’s right to freedom and independence through tangible solidarity initiatives at both local and international levels.
During his lecture, Zerouali also addressed the historical and political context of the Western Sahara conflict and the current challenges facing the Sahrawi cause. He emphasized the importance of maintaining awareness and mobilization in support of the Sahrawi people’s struggle.
On the sidelines of the event, Zerouali held meetings with several local officials and mayors from municipalities near Perpignan, aiming to strengthen support for the Sahrawi cause.
The event also featured several activities, including a photo and document exhibition highlighting the Sahrawi people’s resistance, and spotlighting the plight of Sahrawi political prisoners held in Moroccan jails.
A solidarity campaign was also held during the event, encouraging participants to write letters to Sahrawi political prisoners. Copies of the letters were sent to French and international human rights organizations, as well as the International Committee of the Red Cross.
APS
