Morocco's Reaction to the Spanish Citizenship Legislation for Sahrawis
On September 10th, Spanish lawmakers cast their votes in favor of a legislative proposal that would grant Spanish nationality to tens of thousands of Sahrawis, individuals born during the era when Spain was still administrating the territory. This significant move has raised eyebrows internationally, particularly in Morocco, which controls approximately 80% of Western Sahara, a region marked by its ongoing disputes and lack of autonomy.
Interestingly, the Moroccan government has not issued any formal condemnation regarding this initiative. Media reports indicate that Ramadan Messaoud, a member of the Royal Advisory Council for Saharan Affairs, expressed in July that Rabat holds "no issue" with Sahrawis obtaining Spanish citizenship. This sentiment is echoed by Ignacio Cembrero, a Spanish journalist specializing in Western Sahara. Cembrero elucidates that while Rabat perceives Spain as revisiting its colonial past and interfering in Western Sahara’s affairs—thereby challenging Morocco's territorial integrity—there is an underlying acceptance of the situation. He suggests that Moroccan authorities might actually harbor some relief, for two key reasons. Firstly, many activists within Western Sahara may acquire Spanish nationality and subsequently seek to relocate to Spain or other parts of Europe. Secondly, this development could diminish the legitimacy of the Polisario Front as some refugees from Tindouf may choose to settle in Spain or Europe, thereby weakening the organization's influence.
This complex scenario highlights the multifaceted nature of the relationship between Morocco and Western Sahara, especially concerning colonial history and the ongoing struggle for autonomy. While the immediate response from Moroccan officials appears muted, the long-term implications of this Spanish legislation could have significant repercussions for both the Sahrawi people and the geopolitical landscape of the region.
As reported by rfi.fr.
