New York (United Nations), 13 November 2026 (SPS) – The Nordic countries (Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland) reaffirmed their support for a just and lasting political solution to the Western Sahara conflict, in accordance with the UN Charter and guaranteeing the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination.
They warned of the security risks posed by the abrupt termination of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
The position was delivered by Finland on behalf of the Nordic countries before the UN General Assembly on 10 November, during a debate on developments in Western Sahara following the Security Council's failure to renew MINURSO's mandate.
The Nordic countries expressed support for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, and called on the parties to engage in negotiations in good faith, respect the ceasefire and exercise restraint to prevent further escalation.
They also warned that the abrupt termination of MINURSO's mandate could result in a disorderly withdrawal of the mission and create a dangerous security vacuum in the region, undermining confidence in the UN's peacekeeping mechanisms.
The Nordic countries urged the Security Council to urgently address the future of MINURSO and remain actively engaged in developments in Western Sahara, while highlighting the General Assembly's role under Resolution 76/262 in promoting transparency and accountability when the Security Council is unable to fulfil its responsibilities.
The General Assembly debate, held on 10 and 11 November, brought together representatives of 55 countries and regional groups to discuss the latest developments in Western Sahara.
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