US Under Fire for Hypocrisy on Self-Determination as Morocco Defies International Norms

The United States is facing growing criticism for its inconsistency in promoting self-determination and upholding international norms, particularly in the case of Western Sahara. Despite its vocal opposition to Russian aggression in Ukraine, the US has been accused of turning a blind eye to Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara.

A Troubling Precedent

According to experts, the US-led coalition invasion of Iraq in 2003, which was supported by only four UN Security Council members, set a dangerous precedent for states to disregard international norms and principles. The US has since undermined international efforts to promote self-determination, including its recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020.

A Message of Inconsistency

“By recognizing Moroccan sovereignty, the US is sending a message that it’s okay for powerful nations to ignore the rights of smaller states and peoples,” said Joseph Huddleston, an associate professor at Seton Hall University. “This undermines the very principles of sovereignty and self-determination that are enshrined in the UN Charter.”

The Western Sahara Dispute

The Western Sahara dispute has been ongoing since Morocco occupied the territory in 1976. The region’s indigenous people, led by the Polisario Front, have long sought independence, but their efforts have been met with resistance from Morocco and its allies.

A Call to Action

“The US has a responsibility to uphold international law and promote self-determination,” said Huddleston. “Instead of recognizing Moroccan sovereignty, it should support the rights of the Western Saharan people to determine their own future.”

A Broader Crisis

The crisis in Western Sahara is just one example of the erosion of international norms and principles. Russia’s annexation of Crimea, Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories, and Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara all reflect a troubling new status quo in which states face little international resistance when invading and occupying foreign countries.

A Chance to Restore Credibility

“The US has an opportunity to restore its credibility by supporting Western Sahara’s independence,” said Huddleston. “By doing so, it can reinforce its commitment to the principles of national sovereignty and self-determination and oppose attempts at conquest.”