Introduction

The question of Morocco's firm stance regarding Western Sahara has been a subject of international debate for decades. Morocco's refusal to relinquish its claim over Western Sahara stems from complex historical, territorial, and political contexts. This article delves into the reasons behind Morocco's decision to uphold its claim, the historical context, and the contemporary geopolitical implications.

The Territorial Claim and Nationalism

Morocco's claim over Western Sahara is rooted in territorial claims and nationalism. Since Morocco achieved independence from both France and Spain in 1956, the Moroccan nationalists sought to expand their territory to include Western Sahara, which they considered part of a 'greater Morocco.' This claim was formalized during the Ifini War, when Morocco attempted to gain control over the area, although Spanish forces ultimately maintained control.

The Ifini War and Spanish Control

The Ifini War was a conflict that lasted from 1957 to 1958 and saw Morocco attempting to gain control over Western Sahara. However, Spanish forces, supported by the Polisario Front, managed to expel the Moroccan army from the northern part of Western Sahara. Western Sahara remained under Spanish control until 1975, when Spain relinquished sovereignty following the Green March. Despite this finally ending Spanish rule, Western Sahara continued to be a point of contention, as Morocco has consistently maintained it as an integral part of its territory. International organizations such as the United Nations and the African Union have not officially recognized Morocco's claim on Western Sahara, aligning instead with the Polisario Front's assertion of self-determination.

Historical and Colonial Context

The narrative of Western Sahara's history is often traced back to the Berlin Conference in 1884, where European powers decided to divide Africa among themselves. However, this historical perspective overlooks the intricacies that predate 1884. Spain indeed took control of Western Sahara and established it as a colony, but this solely reflects the influence of colonial powers. Morocco, a centuries-old empire with a rich historical and cultural heritage, saw itself as a rightful owner of Western Sahara long before the arrival of European colonizers.

Decolonization and Narratives

Many Spanish and Western opinions insist on starting the narrative of Western Sahara from 1884, effectively overlooking the centuries of Moroccan history and sovereignty. This is not coincidental but rather a reflection of who holds the power to shape historical narratives. Colonial powers and their successors often impose their version of history, creating artificial borders and conflicting with the collective memories and historical claims of indigenous peoples.

The Political and Geopolitical Implications

Morocco's claim over Western Sahara has significant political and geopolitical implications. Morocco's position, backed by some western countries, is based on a narrative of unity and sovereignty. However, the international community, including the United Nations and African Union, supports the exercise of self-determination by the people of Western Sahara, as endorsed by the UN resolutions. The conflict remains unresolved, with ongoing negotiations and a ceasefire in place since 1991. The political implications of the situation extend to economic, social, and diplomatic fronts, affecting the stability of the region and the relationships between Morocco and its neighbors.

Conclusion

The question of why Morocco has not given up on Western Sahara is multifaceted. It involves deep-seated historical ties, political ambitions, and the broader struggle against colonial legacies. The decolonization of history is crucial in accurately understanding and addressing the complexities of the Western Sahara conflict. By examining the full historical context and the force of colonial narratives, a more comprehensive and fair resolution can be pursued.