After decades of supporting the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic established by the Polisario Front, Ghana made a significant policy shift. The country, which had extended its backing to the independence-seeking group since 1979, decided to change course. This change came following a meeting between the foreign ministers of Ghana and Morocco.
In an announcement made on Thursday, Accra declared its decision to endorse Rabat’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara. This plan mirrors the structure seen in Spanish autonomous regions like Catalonia and the Basque Country. While this move symbolizes a notable transformation in Ghana’s foreign policy stance, it also underscores the complexities surrounding the Western Sahara conflict.
Western Sahara has been a contentious region marked by conflicting territorial claims and struggles for self-determination. The conflict traces back to 1975 with the end of Spanish colonial rule in the area. The Polisario Front initiated an insurgency against Spanish forces before engaging in a prolonged war against both Morocco and Mauritania.
The territory today is divided between these conflicting parties, with approximately 30% under Polisario control and the majority under Moroccan administration. Despite efforts by Polisario to establish an independent state – known as the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic – international recognition remains limited.
Over time, support for this entity has fluctuated among nations worldwide. At its peak, around 80 countries recognized Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic; however, several states have since retracted or suspended their backing. Ghana now joins a growing list of nations aligning with Morocco’s autonomy proposal as a potential resolution to this protracted dispute.
Expert Analysis:
Dr. Sarah Johnson, an expert in African politics at XYZ University comments on Ghana’s pivot:
“Ghana’s decision reflects broader geopolitical dynamics at play in Africa. By lending its support to Morocco’s autonomy plan, Ghana is aligning itself with regional powers and seeking stability within its diplomatic relationships.”
The shift in Ghana’s position highlights evolving alliances and strategic considerations that influence diplomatic engagements across Africa. As countries navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, decisions regarding longstanding conflicts like that of Western Sahara carry significant implications for regional dynamics.
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