Five Key Facts About Western Sahara

Western Sahara: A Disputed Territory in North Africa

1. Geography: Borders Morocco (N), Algeria (E), Mauritania (S/W); Atlantic coast (W). Mostly desert.
2. History: Spanish colony (Spanish Sahara) until 1975. Morocco & Mauritania claimed it → Western Sahara War. 1991 ceasefire; UN mission (MINURSO) for referendum — still not held.
3. Political Status: Morocco administers ~80% (west of berm); Polisario Front (Sahrawi independence movement) controls east, runs Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) from Algerian camps. AU recognizes SADR; UN/majority recognize Moroccan administration de facto.
4. Resources: Phosphate (Bou Craa), rich fisheries, potential offshore oil/gas — exploitation contested.
5. Human Rights: Reports of abuses by both Moroccan forces and Polisario. UN calls for protection, humanitarian access, self‑determination.

One of the world's longest‑running frozen conflicts.