Urgent Appeal for Justice on International Day of Victims of Enforced Disappearances
On August 31, 2026, the Sahrawi National Human Rights Commission (CONASADH) issued a strong condemnation of the ongoing serious crimes and human rights violations perpetrated by the Moroccan occupation against defenseless Sahrawi civilians. This declaration was made in observance of the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, highlighting the urgent need to address the plight of over 400 Sahrawis who remain missing, including the notable Group of 15.
In its statement, CONASADH urged international human rights organizations and relevant United Nations bodies to take decisive action that would compel the Moroccan occupying authorities to disclose information regarding the missing and forcibly disappeared Sahrawi individuals. The organization called for thorough investigations into acts of torture, murder, abduction, and other violations that have been inflicted upon the Sahrawi people, demanding accountability for these heinous acts.
Moreover, CONASADH emphasized the necessity for international justice mechanisms to pursue legal action against Moroccan officials responsible for egregious human rights violations, insisting on holding those accountable for their actions. The commission also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all Sahrawi political prisoners, further underscoring the need for justice and human rights in the region.
In its statement, CONASADH did not shy away from holding Spain accountable for the abduction and disappearance of Mohamed Sidi Brahim Bassiri, a prominent Sahrawi resistance leader associated with the historic Zemla uprising of 1970. The commission called for transparency regarding his fate and reminded Spain of its legal obligations concerning the decolonization of Western Sahara.
Furthermore, the commission expressed disappointment with the International Committee of the Red Cross for its perceived failure to protect Sahrawi civilians effectively. CONASADH called upon the organization to apply pressure on the Moroccan state to adhere to human rights norms and international humanitarian law.
Additionally, CONASADH demanded that the occupied territories of the Sahrawi Republic be opened to international media, observers, parliamentary delegations, and other international figures. Such access would allow for an independent assessment of the human rights situation and the monitoring of violations against Sahrawi civilians.
In conclusion, CONASADH reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with victims of enforced disappearance, survivors of secret detention centers, and their families. The commission stressed the importance of adhering to relevant international conventions and treaties, particularly the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, reinforcing the call for respect and justice for those affected.
As reported by spsrasd.info.
