The UK Government Begins 2026 by Standing Firm on the Sahrawi People’s Right to Self-Determination”
The United Kingdom has, in response to a letter from Mr Sidi Ahmed Alyadasi, Chair of Adala UK, clarified its position regarding the future of Western Sahara, emphasising its commitment to a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution that respects the Sahrawi people’s inalienable right to self-determination.
In his letter to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office , the Chair of Adala UK expressed the organisation’s deep concern regarding UN Security Council Resolution 2797 (2025), underlining the necessity of upholding the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination and ensuring the Frente POLISARIO is recognised as the legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people in the political process. The letter also called on the UK Government to reaffirm its support for the Sahrawi people’s rights and to clarify its position regarding any political or economic activities in the occupied territories.
In response, Hamish Falconer MP, Minister for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, outlined the UK Government’s position:
“The United Kingdom welcomes UN Security Council Resolution 2797, adopted on 31 October, which extends the mandate of MINURSO for a further twelve months. This resolution represents a step towards a just and lasting political solution that provides for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. It marks the beginning of a process to reach a mutually acceptable solution, not the conclusion.”
The Minister further confirmed that the UK is committed to working closely with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Mr Staffan de Mistura, to facilitate dialogue among all parties and to support a transparent and inclusive process leading to a sustainable political settlement that respects the rights of the Sahrawi people and their inalienable right to self-determination.
Adala UK welcomes this clarification, noting that it reflects the principles of international law, the right of peoples to determine their own future, peaceful negotiation, and respect for human rights. By emphasising dialogue and the pursuit of a solution acceptable to all parties, the UK underscores the importance of meaningfully engaging all stakeholders, particularly the Sahrawi people, in determining the future of the territory.
While the path towards a comprehensive resolution remains complex, this statement from the United Kingdom provides reassurance that international law and the rights of the Sahrawi people will remain central to the political process. Adala UK will continue to advocate for a solution that guarantees justice, security, and dignity for the Sahrawi population.
Adala UK will continue to monitor developments closely and to ensure that the voices of the Sahrawi people are heard and respected throughout all stages of the UN-led political process.