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Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) Declares Independence as Moroccan Occupation Continues

After years of conflict, the Polisario Front has declared the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), an independent state in Western Sahara. The declaration comes as Morocco continues to occupy the territory, consolidating its presence through trade agreements and resource extraction.

Decades-Long Conflict Resurfaces

The conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front, which has been ongoing for over three decades, has resurfaced with the declaration of independence. The parties have signed a ceasefire in 1991, agreeing to organize a referendum on independence with the newly created MINURSO. However, negotiations since then have failed to reach a compromise, maintaining the status quo.

Flawed Trade Agreements Under Scrutiny

The Polisario Front has attacked trade agreements between Morocco and European companies, citing violations of UN resolutions, the Principle of Permanent Sovereignty over Natural Resources, and the Principle of Self-Determination of Peoples. The lawsuits have caused reputational, supply-chain, and legal problems for several businesses.

EU-Morocco Deals in Question

The EU holds several trade agreements with Morocco, but the Polisario Front has challenged these deals, arguing that they do not comply with international law. The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has issued judgments on two cases, stating that EU agreements with Morocco cannot include Western Sahara’s territory without the consent of its people.

Sanctions Risks and Organized Crime

The conflict in Western Sahara presents a risk of sanctions being imposed, as well as the potential for organized crime to fill the vacuum left by the anarchy. Traffickers and terror groups may exploit the situation, as seen in Libya and other parts of the MENA region.

Reliable Information Crucial for Complex Decisions

Companies operating in Western Sahara need reliable information to navigate the complex threats posed by the conflict. Businesses are advised to monitor the situation through media, corporate, and institutional communications, and enhanced due diligence (EDD). Adverse media screening (AMS) services and due diligence reports can be costly but provide a robust defense against regulatory violations and reputational issues.

Expert Analysis

“The declaration of independence by the Polisario Front is a significant development in the conflict over Western Sahara,” said Davide Contini, researcher for Dow Jones Risk & Compliance. “The EU’s trade agreements with Morocco are under scrutiny, and companies operating in the region must be aware of the risks posed by sanctions and organized crime.”

Sources

[1] Note du MAE pour la Direction des affaires économiques et financières, 3 février 1969 Paris, AN 19899566/65. [2] Baroudi, A. (1979) Le complot “saharien” contre l’armée et le peuple marocains (première partie). Les Temps Modernes. 394. (5). Pp.1805-1842; [3] Vermeren, P. (2010) Histoire du Maroc depuis l’indépendance. 3ème Ed. Paris : La Découverte. [4] Barbier, M. (1982) Le conflit du Sahara Occidental. Paris : L’Harmattan.

About the Author

Davide Contini is a researcher for the adverse media entities unit of Dow Jones Risk & Compliance, covering Italian and Francophone sources. He holds a master’s degree in international relations and diplomatic affairs from the University of Bologna.