Context
Recently, the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) expired on October 31, 2026, after reciprocal vetoes by Russia and the United States blocked competing draft resolutions at the UN Security Council.
About the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO)
- MINURSO is a specialised United Nations peacekeeping mission established to monitor the ceasefire between Morocco and the Polisario Front and facilitate a referendum on self-determination for the people of Western Sahara.
- It was established under UN Security Council Resolution 690 (In 1991).
- It aims to monitor the ceasefire between Morocco and the Polisario Front, facilitate a self-determination referendum for the people of Western Sahara, and prevent military escalation by monitoring security developments.
About Moroccan Berm
- The Moroccan Berm is a long defensive sand wall (1,700-mile) constructed by Morocco across Western Sahara.
- It separates areas controlled by Morocco from areas controlled by the Polisario Front.
- It is surrounded by extensive minefields and military installations in several stretches.
- MINURSO monitors military activities on both sides of the berm.
Q. With reference to the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), consider the following statements:
1. MINURSO was established under UN Security Council Resolution 690 in 1991.
2. The primary objective of MINURSO is to monitor the ceasefire and facilitate a self-determination referendum in Western Sahara.
3. Western Sahara is recognised by the United Nations as a Non-Self-Governing Territory.
4. Renewal of the MINURSO mandate requires the unanimous approval of all five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
• Statement 1 is correct: MINURSO was established on 29 April 1991 under UN Security Council Resolution 690 to implement the UN Settlement Plan for Western Sahara.
• Statement 2 is correct: Its primary objectives include monitoring the ceasefire between Morocco and the Polisario Front and facilitating a referendum on self-determination for the people of Western Sahara.
• Statement 3 is correct: Western Sahara is included in the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories, reflecting its unresolved political status and decolonisation process.
• Statement 4 is incorrect: Renewal of the mandate requires at least nine affirmative votes in the 15-member Security Council. A negative vote by any permanent member constitutes a veto. Unanimous approval by all five permanent members is not required; abstention by a permanent member does not constitute a veto.