The United Nations details the MINURSO liquidation plan, providing for the departure of 340 personnel and the handover of 13 sites in accordance with the agreed schedule.
The liquidation process of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara is reaching a decisive and irreversible milestone. During the international body’s daily press briefing held on Monday, 2 November 2026, Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres, formally presented the operational details for dismantling the mission following the non-renewal of its mandate by the Security Council. The established plan provides for the methodical repatriation of one hundred and sixty military observers and one hundred and eighty civil servants, accompanying the final withdrawal of UN forces from the national territory. This closing phase puts an end to thirty-five years of multilateral presence and consecrates the direct and sovereign management of all Southern Provinces by the Kingdom’s administrative authorities.
A methodical and structured handover procedure
The closure of facilities is being carried out under the direct supervision of a reduced team attached to the UN Department of Operational Support. This mechanism ensures the orderly return of the thirteen sites previously operated by the mission, in compliance with environmental standards. Operations cover the transfer or disposal of material equipment, the complete dismantling of communication systems and logistical infrastructure, as well as the secure management of archives and the termination of local contracts. The end of this historic mandate replaces former monitoring procedures with a rigorous inventory and a smooth handover of real estate holdings to local authorities and administrative bodies.
Convergence between Rabat and New York for a smooth transition
This operational stage aligns seamlessly with the strategic direction announced by Moroccan diplomacy. Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita had clarified on national television the Kingdom’s commitment to conducting an exemplary transition, emphasizing that the end of the mission does not call into question the country’s historic commitment to maintaining the ceasefire. Taking note of this institutional evolution, the UN Secretary-General invited all parties to facilitate this orderly departure process. The alignment of schedules between the government and international bodies guarantees stability and continuity in territorial management, enabling the Southern regions to peacefully pursue their economic development momentum.
