New York (United Nations), November 12, 2026 (SPS) – Mexico has expressed deep regret over the failure of the UN Security Council to reach consensus on October 30 to renew the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), warning that its termination must not be interpreted as an end to the UN's responsibilities towards the Sahrawi people.
Addressing the UN General Assembly on Wednesday during the debate under Resolution 76/262 on the use of the veto, the Mexican representative stressed that the absence of a peacekeeping mission does not relieve the United Nations of its responsibility to pursue a negotiated political solution guaranteeing the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination.
Mexico called on the UN to remain actively engaged in Western Sahara, particularly in monitoring the ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian assistance and safeguarding the fundamental rights of the Sahrawi people.
It also reaffirmed its support for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Western Sahara and other diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution based on international law and the UN Charter.
Mexico further expressed concern over the abrupt termination of the peacekeeping mission without an orderly transition, warning of potential risks to civilian and military personnel, including Mexican members of MINURSO, as well as the possibility of renewed armed conflict.
The Mexican representative called on the President of the General Assembly, pursuant to Resolution 79/327, to prepare specific recommendations on measures arising from the debate to ensure that the United Nations fulfils its responsibilities regarding self-determination and international peace and security.
The debate follows Russia's veto of the US draft resolution on Western Sahara at the Security Council meeting on October 30, 2026.
Related blogs
