The Evolution of Spanish Policy towards the Western Sahara Conflict

The conflict between the Polisario Front and Morocco (and earlier Mauritania) in Western Sahara has lasted for more than 44 years, but remains unresolved. Many academic works are devoted to the dispute, but the role of Spain in this conflict is underrepresented in scientific literature. Nevertheless, it was Spain that was the metropolis of Western Sahara, and then transferred it to Morocco and Mauritania, renouncing all responsibility. However, the conflict in Western Sahara continues to play crucial role in the Spanish foreign policy, taking into consideration the significance of North Africa and bilateral relations with Morocco for Spain’s foreign policy. We analyze the evolution of Spain’s policy towards the Western Sahara conflict and identify the key factors influencing its formation. Since there are strong support for the right of saharaui to independence in the Spanish society and in some political parties and considerable activity of non-governmental organizations, that support saharui’s right to self-determination, we should define which internal and external political factors influence the development of the Spanish foreign policy towards the conflict.