Ivory Coast has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as a definitive solution to the long-standing regional dispute over Western Sahara. The announcement came during a recent regional seminar of the UN Special Committee on Decolonization (C-24) held in Managua, Nicaragua.
Why Ivory Coast endorses Morocco’s autonomy proposal
The Ivorian delegation emphasized that the initiative, already backed by over 130 countries including three permanent members of the UN Security Council, aligns with international law and relevant UN resolutions. Most notably, the proposal gained further legitimacy with the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797 in 2025, which recognizes its viability.
According to the delegation, the plan uniquely addresses the specific needs of Western Sahara by empowering local residents to take an active role in shaping their political and socioeconomic future. This includes the ability to elect representatives at both local and national levels through regular democratic elections across the Kingdom.
Political and economic benefits highlighted by Ivory Coast
In its statement, Ivory Coast pointed out that Saharawi citizens participate in national elections, with some even representing the region in the C-24 discussions. This participation underscores the inclusive nature of Morocco’s approach.
On the economic front, the delegation noted that the Southern provinces of Morocco have seen substantial development under the 2015 New Development Model. Massive investments have led to tangible improvements in living standards and a notable rise in the Human Development Index for the region. These gains reflect the tangible dividends of Morocco’s commitment to equitable growth.
Ivory Coast also commended Morocco’s efforts in advancing human rights, highlighting the strengthened role of regional branches of the National Human Rights Council in Laâyoune and Dakhla. The Kingdom’s cooperation with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights further demonstrates its commitment to transparency and accountability.
A pragmatic path to regional stability
The Ivorian delegation concluded by praising Morocco’s relentless pursuit of a negotiated compromise. These consistent and measurable steps, they argued, reinforce the credibility of the autonomy initiative, which grants Saharawi populations meaningful self-governance and decision-making power.