US proposes end of referendum quest for Western Sahara

A man poses with a Western Saharan flag.

A man holds the Western Saharan flag during a demonstration in Malaga in support of the Sahrawi people’s rights.

Photo credit: File | AFP

The United States is pushing for an end to the referendum option in Western Sahara, firmly endorsing Moroccan authority over the southern region, part of which has long sought independence.

The proposals are contained in a draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council, due to be discussed this week, and which will determine the future of a peacekeeping mission in the territory.