DR ‹ › On January 19, Sweden officially declared its support for Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara. This move has sparked criticism from some left-wing deputies aligned with the Polisario Front, who have submitted written inquiries to Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard, seeking clarification on this perceived "shift" in policy. "Thanks to the United Nations Security Council resolution adopted in October 2025 regarding Western Sahara, we find ourselves in a unique situation where a potential solution to this long-standing and seemingly intractable conflict is within reach," explained the Swedish foreign minister in her response. "This resolution marks a pivotal moment by recognizing Morocco's autonomy plan as a credible basis for negotiations and a broader UN-led process, guided by the United Nations special envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura. After 50 years of conflict and humanitarian crisis, a sustainable solution is urgently needed. Sweden is eager to participate and contribute to this resolution. In light of the UN resolution, Sweden thus endorses Morocco's autonomy plan as a credible framework for negotiations between the parties." "We have engaged in discussions with the Polisario and Algeria, during which we clarified our position," disclosed Ms. Stenergard. The Swedish foreign minister highlighted that this policy shift is part of a larger European trend. "By altering our stance, we align with the majority of other European Union nations, including our neighbors, Denmark and Finland, who have already adopted a similar position," she remarked. It's noteworthy that back in 2016, Sweden was on the brink of recognizing the "Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic."
