UK Backs Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara

Britain has officially endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, aligning itself with the U.S., France, and Spain, and signaling a major diplomatic shift in one of Africa’s most entrenched territorial disputes.

Speaking in Rabat, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy described Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal—granting limited self-rule under Moroccan sovereignty—as the “most credible, viable and pragmatic basis” for resolving the decades-long conflict. This marks a departure from the UK's previous position of supporting Sahrawi self-determination under an undefined final status.

Lammy confirmed that Britain would “act bilaterally, economically and internationally” in line with this new position.

Diplomatic Momentum Favors Rabat

Morocco controls most of Western Sahara, while the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, controls eastern areas and seeks full independence. A 1991 UN-brokered ceasefire promised a referendum that has never occurred. After Morocco’s 2020 breach of the truce, the Polisario declared it void.

Rabat now enjoys backing from key Western allies. The U.S. recognized its claim in 2020 under Trump, followed by Spain and France. Bourita, Morocco’s foreign minister, welcomed the UK’s endorsement as part of a growing international trend.

Economic Ties and World Cup Diplomacy

The visit included cooperation agreements on healthcare, innovation, ports, and water infrastructure. Lammy linked future British business opportunities to Morocco’s role in co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

British investment in Western Sahara is under discussion, further legitimizing Rabat’s administration in the region.

UN and Algeria Maintain Resistance

Despite growing Western support for Morocco’s plan, the UN continues to back a negotiated solution, emphasizing the Sahrawi people's right to decide their future. Algeria strongly opposes Morocco’s claim and has criticized Western endorsements.

The UK’s new stance is expected to deepen geopolitical rifts in the Maghreb and may complicate UN-led negotiations.