Greens condemn violence in Western Sahara

2020-11-25

The Australian Greens condemn the violence and breakdown in the UN-backed ceasefire in Western Sahara. Any acts of aggression by the Moroccan government are unacceptable, and the Australian Greens are profoundly concerned at reports that the Moroccan government has launched a military operation in a United Nations-patrolled buffer strip in Western Sahara.  The Australian Greens urge the UN to broker a renewed cease-fire as soon as possible. 

The Australian Greens strongly support the right of the Saharawi people to self-determination. They have been waiting for decades for a long-awaited referendum, and the United Nations should finally organise a free and fair referendum on independence in Western Sahara without further delay. 

The Australian Government must use all diplomatic channels available to advocate for an immediate cessation of hostilities, and support all efforts to organise a free and fair referendum on independence in Western Sahara.