Western Sahara Delegation Ban Draws Criticism from UK Rights Group

The human rights organization Justice has condemned the Moroccan authorities’ decision to deny entry to a foreign political and human rights delegation seeking to enter Western Sahara. Justice asserts the action is a violation of international law.

The organization’s statement detailed the incident and its broader implications for human rights monitoring in the region.

Denial of Entry

Members of the delegation were reportedly held on an aircraft and prevented from disembarking without explanation or identification of the responsible authorities. Justice described this as a violation of the rule of law and procedural guarantees. The organization suggests this incident demonstrates a pattern of obstructing independent international scrutiny of Western Sahara.

Legal Violations

Justice stated the action constitutes a breach of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, specifically impacting freedom of movement and the right to information. The organization also cited a violation of the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, which protects individuals and organizations engaged in peaceful human rights work.

Ongoing Concerns in Western Sahara

Justice indicated the incident is part of a broader policy aimed at isolating Western Sahara and preventing documentation of human rights violations. These alleged violations include the suppression of peaceful protests, arbitrary arrests, unfair trials, and targeting of Sahrawi human rights defenders. The organization reported that dozens of Sahrawi political prisoners remain detained in Moroccan prisons, with conditions reportedly not meeting international standards for fair trial guarantees.

Calls for International Action

Justice called on the United Kingdom, the United Nations, the European Union, and other concerned states to ensure unrestricted access to Western Sahara for international observers, media, and human rights organizations. The organization also urged the establishment of an independent human rights monitoring mechanism, potentially integrated within the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).

Right to Self-Determination

Justice reiterated the position that the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination is non-negotiable. The organization warned that continued international inaction contributes to impunity in the territory, which has been under occupation for decades.

APS