US proposes Minurso mandate change
Washington wants to alter the UN mission's role in Western Sahara ahead of a vote.
Tensions rose in Western Sahara as the United States presented a draft resolution to the UN Security Council on October 22, 2026. The proposal aims to redefine the role of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (Minurso), which is tasked with organizing a referendum. The US wants to extend Minurso's mandate but with significant changes to its operations.
The pro-independence Sahrawi group, the Polisario Front, reacted swiftly to the US proposal, feeling targeted by the suggested reforms. The vote on the extension of Minurso's mandate is scheduled to take place at the UN headquarters in less than 10 days.
The proposed changes come as the UN Security Council prepares to vote on the future of Minurso. The Polisario Front has threatened to withdraw from discussions if the mission's mandate is altered in a way they deem unfavorable.
Why it mattersThe proposed changes to the Minurso mandate directly affect the Sahrawi people's pursuit of a referendum and self-determination.