The Sahrawi Front, formally known as the Movement for the Liberation of Western Sahara, has been from its inception a symbol of resistance and the fight for the self-determination of the Sahrawi peoples. The existence and recognition of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) are fundamental to understanding this struggle, but it is important to clarify that the withdrawal of recognition of the SADR does not alter the legitimacy or justice of the Sahrawi people’s rights.

International public law allows for the withdrawal of recognition of a state, which some countries have done under pressure from Morocco, but this does not affect the Sahrawi people’s fight, its legitimacy, or the reality on the ground. Some states do not recognize the SADR due to the political situation of not being a fully formed state, with occupied territories.

There are also other nuances, such as recognizing the POLISARIO as the only valid interlocutor and representative of the Sahrawi people. Rejecting this designation, which Morocco and other organizations seek to assign to themselves, is a first step toward recognizing the SADR. Some countries take this path to avoid confrontation.

Other states do not recognize or allow recognition but permit POLISARIO activities on their territory.

International recognition of the Polisario and the SADR has been a crucial step in highlighting the Sahrawi cause against the injustices committed by Morocco. However, it is essential to understand that the Sahrawi people’s struggle is not limited to this diplomatic recognition; their legitimate right to self-determination transcends any political decision of the states. Morocco’s ongoing occupation and systematic violations of human rights in the occupied territories demonstrate that recognizing or not the SADR or POLISARIO within international structures does not change the reality on the ground.

Curiously, defending the inalienable rights of the Sahrawi people does not entail rejecting Morocco’s rights over its own territory. Therefore, accusations against those who support POLISARIO of being supporters of a separatist group make no sense. Defending the integrity of Western Sahara, the non-annexation of territories by force, sovereignty principles, and non-interference in internal affairs, as well as respecting borders inherited from decolonization, which confirm the right to self-determination of Sahara, are not anti-Moroccan positions but rather stands for justice and law.

If a country invaded Morocco or a region without right, and it separated, it would defend its right to territorial integrity—something Sahara Occidental is denied. The real issue is Morocco’s occupation and its violations of Sahrawi rights, committing crimes of occupation and illegitimate resource exploitation.

The true question concerns justice and the rights of the Sahrawi people. Morocco’s occupation, repression, exploitation, and human rights violations have caused constant suffering for the Sahrawis. The international community must remember that these actions, driven by Morocco’s desire to maintain sovereignty over the territory, violate fundamental principles of international law and human rights. Recognizing the Polisario and supporting its cause is the most decisive act to reject oppression and defend the human rights of a vulnerable and oppressed population for decades.

It is crucial to emphasize that the Sahrawi fight is not just a territorial claim; it is a struggle for dignity, justice, and equality. The resistance of the Polisario Front and Sahrawi institutions reflects the aspiration of a people to live in freedom, in a country where they can decide their destiny without coercion or oppression. Any attempt to minimize or dismiss this cause perpetuates injustice and suffering for Sahrawis, many of whom face displacement, repression, and uncertainty about their future.

Recognition of the Polisario and the assertion of Sahrawi rights are also acts of international solidarity. Ensuring that the Sahrawis can exercise their right to self-determination under fair conditions is the best way to guarantee their rights are respected. The global community must support the Sahrawi cause and condemn Moroccan regime actions, which have repeatedly ignored Sahrawi rights in pursuit of maintaining illegitimate control over Western Sahara.

In conclusion, justice and the rights of the Sahrawi people should be at the core of the international debate. Recognizing the Polisario Front, its struggle, and its institutions not only supports their legitimate right to determine their future but also sends a clear message: oppression and human rights violations must not be tolerated. The Sahrawi people must be considered the true protagonists of their history and future, and international recognition of their cause is the best way to support their rights and dignity against the ongoing injustice by Morocco.