Western Sahara: MINURSO operations end; diplomatic efforts continue
On 1 November, the UN announced the end of peacekeeping operations after the mandate expired on 31 October. A liquidation and orderly withdrawal process begins.
MINURSO operations in Western Sahara have ended, according to the UN News update of 1 November. The mandate expired on 31 October after the Security Council failed to agree on renewal.
The operational change
A liquidation period begins on 1 November. A smaller team reporting to the UN Department of Operational Support will oversee the disposal of equipment. António Guterres called for cooperation on an orderly withdrawal and restraint amid the risk of escalation.
Diplomacy continues
The UN continues its efforts through Personal Envoy Staffan de Mistura. The Secretary-General stressed that withdrawal does not remove the people’s right to self-determination.
The important distinction is between ending a peacekeeping mandate and resolving the dispute. The announcement describes the cessation of operations and a withdrawal process without presenting a completed political settlement.
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