Original Source: archive.spsrasd.info
In a poignant gathering held in Lisbon on November 29, 2024, parliamentarians voiced their deep concern over the alarming decline of human rights in the occupied Sahrawi territories. The final communiqué from the parliamentary conference called on Morocco to grant access to human rights organizations and independent observers, underscoring the need for accountability in the region.
The parliamentarians passionately urged the United Nations to integrate human rights defense into the mission mandate of the UN for conducting a referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). They expressed unwavering support for the European Court of Justice’s ruling from last October, which annulled trade agreements with Morocco that infringed on Sahrawi rights.
Moreover, the resolution echoed the urgency for the implementation of UN resolutions advocating for the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination through a referendum. The call to action was clear: the Sahrawis deserve to have their future determined freely and fairly.
As the atmosphere filled with concern and solidarity, lawmakers highlighted the critical role of international oversight in the occupied territories by advocating for human rights organizations’ access. They implored the Portuguese government to champion a strong stance in favor of organizing a referendum, reaffirming their commitment to the Sahrawi people’s quest for justice and freedom.
The situation in Western Sahara remains a contentious issue characterized by Morocco’s ongoing occupation and the consequent human rights violations experienced by the Sahrawi population. The Sahrawi people, seeking independence, have long been under the shadow of a complex political landscape, intensifying calls for international scrutiny and intervention. The role of organizations like MINURSO is central but is limited without the mandate to address human rights concerns, making recent calls for reform critical for addressing the plight of the Sahrawi. The European Court of Justice’s recent rulings have underscored the legal ramifications of these trade agreements, reinforcing the legitimacy of the Sahrawi’s claims and their right to self-governance. The ongoing rallying of international support, especially at parliamentary levels, reflects a growing awareness and urgent need for clarity in the Sahrawi struggle for autonomy.
The parliamentary conference in Lisbon serves as a rallying point emphasizing the deteriorating human rights conditions in occupied Sahrawi territories. By advocating for greater oversight and the legitimacy of Sahrawi self-determination, the lawmakers resonate with global calls for justice. Their resolute demands highlight an urgent need for international action to support the Sahrawi people’s quest for freedom, compelling further dialogue within international forums.
