Summary
The document is a confidential report from Morocco’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, addressed to the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs. It summarizes a working meeting held on July 18, 2014, between the Moroccan Ambassador and Hervé Ladsous, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, regarding MINURSO and the management of the Western Sahara dossier.
Key Discussion Points:
Appointment of Ms. Kim Bolduc
Morocco was not consulted during the appointment process, contrary to usual practice.
Algeria and the Polisario Front were allegedly informed before Morocco.
Concerns persist about Ms. Bolduc’s approach, which might prioritize a humanitarian rather than a political strategy.
Mr. Ladsous denied any favoritism and committed to contacting Ms. Bolduc to clarify her intentions.
What Morocco Considers as « Recent Missteps by MINURSO »:
The UN mission allegedly exceeded its mandate (which is limited to monitoring the ceasefire, mine management, and confidence-building measures).
MINURSO reportedly interfered in a visit by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) by facilitating meetings with pro-Polisario NGOs.
Visa Stamp Issue: Morocco fears implicit recognition of the Polisario if MINURSO personnel’s documents are no longer stamped upon arrival.
Perceived Bias in MINURSO Reports:
Morocco accuses the UN of compiling reports favoring the Polisario’s position while ignoring Moroccan initiatives.
Ladsous promised to review these allegations but downplayed the influence of such briefing notes.
Proposal for Ladsous’ Visit to Morocco
To ease tensions, Ladsous proposed visiting Morocco in September 2014.
Morocco sees this visit as an opportunity to strengthen its arguments and secure assurances.
Conclusions:
The meeting was tense, with Morocco adopting a firm stance in denouncing the perceived bias of the UN Secretariat.
Morocco is pursuing an assertive strategy to influence UN decisions.
Ladsous’ visit could be an opportunity to pressure the UN for a more balanced approach to the Western Sahara issue.
The document highlights Morocco’s determination to exert strong diplomatic pressure to counter any initiative perceived as favoring the Polisario in managing MINURSO and the Western Sahara dossier.
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Subject: National Question / Candid Discussion with the USG at DPKO, Mr. Hervé Ladsous
I have the honor to inform you that this afternoon, I held a working meeting with Mr. Hervé Ladsous, Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, and his team (his personal assistant and Ms. Jody Hilton).
This working session is part of the Mission’s strategy to establish a regular, frank, and firm dialogue with DPKO. The objective is to hold this department, as well as MINURSO, accountable by denouncing their partiality and bias and ultimately shifting the pressure onto them.
In this context, I focused on three main points, summarized below, while handing over the attached documents to Mr. Ladsous as evidence supporting my questions, criticisms, and observations.
I: Appointment of Ms. Kim Bolduc
1. Nomination Process
Morocco was deliberately ignored before, during, and after the appointment process—this is the first time in MINURSO’s history that this has happened.
More concerning, Algeria and the « Polisario » were reportedly informed before the nomination.
This lack of communication is unacceptable as it demonstrates a blatant unwillingness to cooperate with Morocco. Respect must be upheld.
This attitude raises legitimate concerns for Morocco, especially given that it follows the missteps in the latest Security Council report.
Moroccan authorities find this year’s approach puzzling. The combination of these two serious incidents, along with other actions, suggests a dangerous shift in the Secretariat’s handling of the Sahara issue.
This episode jeopardizes the progress made with Mr. Weber, including agreements on MINURSO vehicle license plates.
Response from Mr. Ladsous:
The appointment process for Ms. Bolduc followed standard procedures.
There were three or four candidates, and the Secretary-General made his selection. The standard practice is to inform the host country, not to consult it.
Morocco was verbally informed, followed by a letter from Ms. Malcorra on June 15, which was placed in Morocco’s Mission document box (but was only received when Mr. Ladsous faxed it a month later).
2. Ms. Bolduc’s Background, Actions, and Statements
Ms. Bolduc comes from a UNDP and humanitarian background, whereas previous Special Representatives traditionally had peacekeeping or political profiles.
Will she focus on humanitarian and development issues at the expense of her mandate? Is there a shift in her mission’s orientation?
The « Polisario » claims that Ms. Bolduc stated that the Sahara issue should be resolved on the ground and that she plans to work closely with NGOs and civil society, particularly on human rights issues.
Ms. Bolduc is not in charge of resolving the Sahara issue—that falls under political negotiations. MINURSO does not have a human rights mandate. Morocco fully cooperates with the OHCHR.
Aminatou Haidar claims she was contacted by Ms. Bolduc.
If such contact or statements are confirmed, it would be extremely problematic and compromising for Ms. Bolduc. These would be serious developments that Morocco cannot tolerate or allow.
Response from Mr. Ladsous:
Ms. Bolduc’s background should not be overemphasized—she was chosen because she is fully competent.
There was no ulterior motive behind her appointment. She was selected as a strong and capable individual.
While she has a development background, her political judgment skills were the key factor in her selection.
Her interview focused solely on MINURSO’s mandate.
Her appointment aligns with Mr. Ban Ki-moon’s policy of promoting women.
He finds it very surprising that she would have made any statements or initiated any contacts. “When you haven’t yet taken office, you keep quiet.”
He will call Mrs. Bolduc today to inquire about the accuracy of this information. If necessary, « he will scold Mrs. Bolduc. »
Mr. Ladsous told me, during a reception this evening, that after our meeting, he contacted Mrs. Bolduc. She denied making any statements or contacting anyone in the Sahara. She has spent the current month in Panama following her mother’s passing. Through Mr. Ladsous, she expressed her desire to come to New York at any time to meet with me. I did not respond to this offer.
I. Recent Missteps by MINURSO:
The current mandate of MINURSO is clearly defined by three key tasks:
Monitoring the ceasefire;
Reducing the risk of landmines and other explosive remnants of war;
Supporting confidence-building measures (CBMs).
Unfortunately, MINURSO is not respecting this mandate, as evidenced by the following examples:
1. MINURSO’s Interference in the OHCHR Visit to the Sahara:
MINURSO was neither involved in nor concerned with this visit. However, it created a serious incident by insisting on hosting the OHCHR meetings with NGOs. MINURSO’s interference in human rights matters is highly problematic. This is an alarming and unacceptable deviation from its mandate.
Since this incident, the « Polisario » claims that instructions were issued from New York to MINURSO and OHCHR to ensure that MINURSO hosts all future meetings of special procedures visiting the Sahara.
This submission to the « Polisario’s » blackmail would set a dangerous precedent, potentially turning MINURSO into a UN Center or even a meeting place for separatists. MINURSO will bear the consequences because Morocco will never allow it.
Responses from Mr. Ladsous:
MINURSO was the one that offered its premises for OHCHR’s technical visit. No instructions were given from New York in this regard. (I strongly contradicted this statement, without, however, mentioning Jan Eliasson’s fax.)
No directive was issued from New York for special procedures meetings to be held at MINURSO’s headquarters. He will verify. It is necessary to inquire with OHCHR. (I recommended that he inquire with the Secretariat in New York instead, as OHCHR was merely the recipient of these instructions.)
2. Stamps on UN Travel Documents:
The « Polisario » claims to have succeeded in its demand regarding travel document stamps and that MINURSO personnel will now enter the Sahara through cities in northern Morocco to avoid having their documents stamped in the Sahara. This would be a serious development on the part of the Secretariat and could call into question MINURSO’s very presence.
Morocco had already warned the Secretariat against such maneuvers and expressed firm opposition to them. Any concession by MINURSO to the « Polisario’s » blackmail will have severe consequences for its mission.
Morocco will not accept a fait accompli or any change in the nature of MINURSO’s presence or movement in the Sahara.
After 23 years, the rules of the game will not be changed. Morocco has never attempted to do so. On the contrary, it has made numerous concessions to facilitate MINURSO’s mission.
Unfortunately, Morocco observes that the Secretariat and MINURSO are bowing to the « Polisario. »
Responses from Mr. Ladsous:
He objects to the term « bowing. »
Regarding the stamps, the Secretariat opposed the « Polisario, » stating that it has neither the status nor the attributes of a state to stamp travel documents.
The UN obtained an agreement in Tindouf that these measures would not be implemented. The « Polisario » wants to revisit the issue in September.
He is unaware of any Secretariat decision regarding stamps in the Sahara.
III. Joint DPKO/DPA Briefing Notes on UN Field Operations:
For several years, Morocco has drawn DPKO’s attention to the biased, misleading, and one-sided nature of the information regarding MINURSO in the weekly briefing notes sent to the Security Council.
These notes resemble « Polisario » propaganda manifestos, as they systematically highlight its activities, convey all of Abdelaziz’s messages, and avoid criticism—such as ignoring the fact that Tindouf « refugees » choose to remain in the Sahara after family visits. Meanwhile, they downplay or completely omit Morocco’s actions, such as OHCHR visits, human rights NGOs’ work, regional CNDH commissions’ efforts, and visits by diplomats and foreign delegations to the Sahara.
The Secretariat has essentially become the « Polisario’s » spokesperson.
Some Secretariat officials did not want OHCHR’s technical mission to succeed. They were disappointed that it did not produce a dramatic report on the human rights situation in the Sahara, which could have been further weaponized against Morocco.
The Secretariat is not supposed to be lenient or act as the « Polisario’s » advocate. Its role is to be neutral and impartial.
Instead, the Secretariat focuses on highlighting tensions, protests, problems, and dramatic situations—anything that can harm Morocco’s image. For example, one briefing note referenced children in Laayoune celebrating Raja Casablanca’s defeat against Bayern Munich. How could such an event be of interest to Security Council members?
These briefing notes are working tools for the Council and can influence its members by giving a distorted picture of the situation on the ground and the parties’ positions. They are also sent to capitals, making their biased content even more dangerous.
The tendentious content of these notes is unacceptable because it is deliberately hostile to Morocco. It must be reviewed and corrected.
There is an anti-Moroccan bias within the Secretariat, driven by certain officials with ideological or political agendas who are insidiously working against Morocco. These officials lack intellectual integrity, neutrality, impartiality, and professionalism. Morocco can no longer tolerate this and will denounce it before the Security Council when the time is right.
These officials must take responsibility for their stance against Morocco. The Secretariat and MINURSO have an obligation to remain neutral; otherwise, Morocco will not hesitate to demand MINURSO’s departure.
Responses from Mr. Ladsous:
Mr. Ladsous disagrees with the questioning of the neutrality, impartiality, and integrity of the Secretariat. He stated, « This is a very serious accusation. These are weighty words. » He also disagrees with the assertion that there is an anti-Moroccan bias within the Secretariat.
He acknowledged that there might have been missteps or errors, saying, « We will take a close look at this. We will draw the necessary conclusions. »
Mr. Ladsous attempted to downplay the importance of briefing notes, stating that « they are only read by third secretaries in Permanent Missions. » However, he committed to examining this matter closely.
He agreed that references to Morocco’s letters and to individuals who choose to remain in the Sahara after family visits should be included in official documentation.
He sought to justify the reference to letters from the Polisario by arguing that they serve as a means for the group’s position to reach members of the Security Council. According to him, Morocco’s letters are not mentioned because they are circulated directly to Council members. (I strongly objected to this reasoning, arguing that these briefing notes cannot systematically repeat the Polisario’s position while ignoring Morocco’s stance and its achievements in the Sahara.)
IV: Proposal for Mr. Ladsous’ Visit to Morocco
Mr. Ladsous proposed that, on his way to the Central African Republic—where he is scheduled to travel on September 15, 2014, for the transition of the African Mission into a UN Mission—he could make a stop in Rabat to discuss all these matters with Moroccan authorities. This visit could take place on September 11, 12, or 13. I assured him that I would submit his visit proposal to the Moroccan authorities.
V: Conclusions and Comments
This meeting was very frank and extremely tense. I insisted on the presence of Mr. Ladsous’ collaborators so that the message would be conveyed clearly and directly to them and, through them, to the entire Secretariat.
Mr. Ladsous and his team were very surprised—even shocked—by the severity of my criticisms and observations, as well as by the firm, harsh, and uncompromising tone regarding the Secretariat’s and MINURSO’s biased and hostile attitude.
Mr. Ladsous and his collaborators were on the defensive on all the issues raised.
Faced with our arguments, Mr. Ladsous showed signs of frustration and irritation toward his own team, questioning them on several aspects, particularly in relation to the briefing notes.
They clearly grasped the significance of our country’s new assertive stance and its determination to oppose any misconduct. Our firm message was conveyed without any ambiguity.
This meeting successfully shifted the pressure onto the Secretariat.
Mr. Ladsous’ proposal to visit Morocco and meet with our officials reflects his discomfort and his desire to ease tensions with Morocco. That same evening, at a reception, he reiterated his request to visit our country—likely after securing the approval of the UN Secretary-General’s office.
In this regard, it would be highly advisable to accept Mr. Ladsous’ visit to further reinforce our firm stance and send a strong message of zero tolerance for any deviations by MINURSO or the Secretariat.
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Section regarding MINURSO in the briefing notes 2013-2014
9 to 15 Julv 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): Sahrawi and Moroccan media reported that a Sahrawi man was killed by the Moroccan security forces on 12 July “in an attempt to storm”, according to Moroccan media, the Bgradi roadblock in the area of Oum Dreyga (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
2 to 8 July 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 3 July, MINURSO observed that the demonstrator’s camp in Rabouni, Tindouf area, had been dismantled after six months of protest. On 4 July, MINURSO received a communique from the Collective of Sahrawi Human Rights denouncing the arrest of a Sahrawi journalist by Moroccan police. In a 7 July letter to the Secretary- General, Frente Polisario Secretary-General Abdelaziz referred to the arrest and urged the United Nations to ensure Morocco’s release of him along with all journalists and political detainees.
25 June to 1 July 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
18 to 24 June 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a 19 June letter to the Secretary-General, Frente Polisario Secretary-General Abdelaziz recalled the recently renewed Moroccan contracts with US and French firms for early gas/oil exploration drilling off the coast of Western Sahara, which were not in accordance with the wishes of the Sahrawi people and undermined the PESG negotiation efforts. The FrentePolisario leader requested the Secretary-General to call upon Morocco and the companies concerned to “immediately desist from any further illegal activities with respect to the natural resources of Western Sahara”.
11 to 17 June 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a 17 June letter to the Secretary-General, FrentePolisario Secretary-General Abdelaziz stressed the need for an impartial referendum enabling the Sahrawi people to exercise their right to self-determination. He called for a United Nations human rights monitoring/protection mechanism, an end to illicit natural resource exploitation, and release of political prisoners. Mr. Abdelaziz referenced a 15 June Sahrawi demonstration for these objectives in Laayoune, which, he claimed, had been forcibly disbanded by the Moroccan security forces.
4 to 10 June 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 4 June, a Sahrawi youth broke into the Mission headquarters compound seeking international asylum; the incident was resolved in the presence of two Laayoune-based members of the National Council for Human Rights.
28 May-3 June 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a 16 May letter to the Secretary-General, FrentePolisario Secretary-General Abdelaziz requested the United Nations to accelerate the decolonization process and establish a human rights monitoring/protection mechanism for Western Sahara. He referenced a 15 May Sahrawi demonstrations in Laayoune which, he claimed had been forcibly disbanded by the Moroccan security forces. Following a “technical” OHCHR visit to the Territory earlier in the month, the High Commissioner for Human Rights visited Morocco from 26-29 May.
21 to 27 May 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
14 to 20 Mav 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
7 to 13 May 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
30 April to 6 May 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
23-29 April 2014: No mention
16 – 22 April 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 21 April, a demonstration was dispersed by Moroccan security forces in Smara (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). On 19 April, Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz, wrote to the Secretary-General to protest the repression of pro-independence demonstrations by Moroccan security forces, in Laayoune on 15 April, and called for the release of Sahrawi political detainees. Another demonstration in Laayoune was dispersed by Moroccan security forces on 20 April. On 22 April, a shepherd died after stepping on a mine in the vicinity of Smara. During the period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of 55,826 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
9- 15 April 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 16 April, the family visit activities under the Confidence Building programme resumed after an intemiption of more than seven months. Forty-eight beneficiaries travelled from Dakhla (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco) to the refugee camps south of Tindouf (Algeria), and 143 refugees travelled from the camps to visit their relatives in Dakhla. On 15 April, clashes erupted between Sahrawi demonstrators and Moroccan security forces in Laayoune (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco); injuries on both sides were reported. On 13 April, in Dakhla, demonstrators took to the streets to call for inclusion of human rights monitoring in MINURSO’s mandate; the demonstration was dispersed by the police. On 10 April, a demonstration in favor of self-determination took place in Smara (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco); clashes erupted when Moroccan security forces intervened to disperse the demonstrators. During the period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 1598 square meters of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
2 – 8 Ajiril 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
26 March —1 April 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NTR
19 – 25 March 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
12 to 18 March 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 12 March, the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees reached an agreement with the parties to resume the family visit flights between towns located in the western part of the Territory (controlled by Morocco) and the refugee camps south of Tindouf (Algeria). The next flight is scheduled for 17 April 2014. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 178,215 square metres of land in the Mehaires and Mijek areas (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
5 to 11 March 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 8 March, in Laayoune, there was a demonstration to celebrate International Women’s Day and in support of self-determination for the Territory. The demonstration was forcefully dispersed by Moroccan security forces and injuries were reported. The actions of the Moroccan security forces were denounced by the Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz, in a letter to the Secretary-General dated 9 March, in which he reiterated his call for a UN human rights mechanism in Western Sahara. Also on 8 March, the Frente Polisario leader signed a decree to establish a “National Commission for Human Rights”. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 185,454 sqm of land in the Mijek and Mehaires area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
26 February to 4 March 2014 : Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 26 February, a Saharawi farmer was injured when he accidentally detonated a cluster bomb unit while farming in the vicinity of Mehaires (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by the Frente Polisario). During the period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 98,651 square metres of land in the Mehaires and Mijek areas (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
19 to 25 February 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
12 to 18 February 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 15 February, a demonstration took place in Laayoune to protest the absence of a human rights monitoring mandate for MINURSO and in support of the self-determination of Western Sahara. The demonstration, which coincided with visits to the Territory by two British parliamentary delegations, was forcefully dispersed by Moroccan security forces. The vehicle of one of the British delegations was stopped by Moroccan security forces in the margins of the demonstration and the delegation was accused of inciting civil unrest. The camera of a member of the delegation was seized by the security personnel and returned after the intervention of Morocco’s Regional Human Rights Council. On 16 February, Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz, wrote to the Secretary-General to protest the repression by Moroccan security forces. He also reiterated his call for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Saharawi political prisoners. During the period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 10,300 square metres of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
5 to 11 February 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 10 February, a small-scale demonstration took place in Laayoune to protest the absence of a human rights monitoring mandate for MINURSO and in support of the self- determination of the Territory. During the period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 42,410 square metres of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
29 January to 4 February 2014 : Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 25 January, a pro-independence demonstration took place in Smara (western part of Western Sahara, controlled by Morocco). During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 221,040 square meters of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of Western Sahara, controlled by Frente Polisario). MINURSO also monitored the destruction of unexploded ordnances on two occasions in Smara and Oum Dreyga (western part of Western Sahara, controlled by Morocco).
22 to 28 January 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
15 to 21 January 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 17 January, a group of five unarmed Saharawi youth broke into MINURSO Mahbas team site by crossing the sand wall and barbed wire (northwestern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). They carried stones and a protest banner and brochures. The acting Team Site commander proceeded to negotiate with the youths. After about 30 minutes, approximately 25 Royal Moroccan Army soldiers entered the Team site, apprehended the intruders and took them into custody. MINURSO is conducting an investigation into the incident.
8 to 14 January 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a letter to the Secretary-General dated 12 January, the Frente Polisario leader denounced the repression by Moroccan security forces of pro-independence demonstrations in Laayoune and reiterated his call for a United Nations human rights mechanism in Western Sahara. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of 88,761 square metres of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
25 December 2013 to 7 January 2014: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
18 to 24 December 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 19 December, a demonstration took place in Laayoune in favour of self-determination.
Demonstrators also called for the release of detained Sahrawis. On 21 December, clashes between Saharawis and Moroccan security forces took place in Laayoune when Saharawis gathered in the streets to celebrate the defeat of Morocco’s Raja Casablanca team in the Club World Cup football final.
11 to 17 December 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 10 December, pro- Saharawi demonstrations took place in Laayoune coinciding with Human Rights Day. On 11 December, the Frente Polisario leader wrote to the Secretary-General to protest the violent repression of the demonstrations by Moroccan security forces. He also reiterated his call for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Saharawi political prisoners. On 16 and 17 December, a delegation of the United Working Group on Arbitrary Detention visited Laayoune and was briefed by MINURSO leadership on the Mission’s mandate and activities.
4 to 10 December 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a letter to the Secretary-General dated 8 December, Frente Polisario leader denounced the repression by Moroccan security forces of the demonstration that took place in Laayoune on 7 December and reiterated his call for a UN human rights mechanism in Western Sahara. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 207.239 square meters of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
27 November to 3 December 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
20 to 26 November 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
13 to 19 November 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
6 to 12 November 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 6 November, King Mohammed VI gave a speech at the occasion of the 38th anniversary of the Green March, which devoted considerable time to the situation of human rights in the Territory and to Morocco’s autonomy proposal, with a specific focus on its multidimensional aspects. The speech was denounced by the Frente Polisario. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 184,149 square meters of land in the Mijek and Mehaires areas (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
30 October to 5 November 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
23 to 29 October 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): DPKO ASG Mulet continued his visit to MINURSO’s area of operation, where he travelled to Tindouf and met with the Frente Polisario Coordinator for MINURSO to address Mission-related issues and with the Frente Polisario Secretary-General. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence cleared a total of 35,054 square meters of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army destroyed one unexploded ordnance in the Smara area (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
16 to 22 October 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): Continuing his regional tour, the PESG met with Frente Polisario Secretary General in the Rabouni refugee camps on and exchanged views with Sahrawi civil society organisations. The PESG also met with the Wali, the Moroccan Coordinator with MINURSO, the local office of the Moroccan Regional Committee for Human Rights (CRDH) and other local officials. In addition, he met with local representatives as well as activists across positions regarding the future of the Territory. In Smara, the PESG met the governor of the province, elected officials, tribal chiefs as well as civil society activists supportive of either side. During the Laayone visit, hundreds of Sahrawi youths chanting defiant or pro-Frente Polisario slogans clashed with police, followed by police house raids and arrests; an uncertain number of protester and police injuries was also reported. The Moroccan authorities informed the CRDH President of their intent to investigate and identify those responsible for the house raids and violence. Media favourable to Frente Polisario subsequently stressed the urgency of a UN mechanism enabling MINURSO to protect, monitor and report on human rights. DPKO ASG Mulet also visited MINURSO and met with the Moroccan Coordinator on 21 October to address Mission-related issues. The same day, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, resumed operations after the Eid holiday and cleared a total of 4,074 square meters of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army destroyed one unexploded ordnance in the Smara area (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
2 to 8 October 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
25 September to 1 October: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 26 September, a Saharawi was injured in a mine accident south of Dakhla (western side of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 97,000 square meters of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). On 27 September, MINURSO observed a group of approximately 83 Saharawis protesting the existence of the berm, east of the sand wall, in close proximity to a Moroccan strong point near Mahbas (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). Four demonstrators approached the barbed wire fence to plant a Frente Polisario flag. Demonstrators, two of which briefly crossed the fence, threw stones in the direction of the Moroccan strong point. One MINURSO military observer was hit by a stone. No injury was reported.
On 30 September, approximately 50 Saharawis demonstrated peacefully in Laayoune over socio-economic rights.
18 to 24 September 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 21 September, Major-General Edy Imam Mulyono arrived in MINURSO to assume his duties as the Mission’s Force Commander. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 38,700m2 of land in the Mijek and Mehaires areas (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara area (north-western part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
11 to 17 September 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): During the reporting period, MINURSO confirmed that the Royal Moroccan Army had violated Military Agreement No.1 on two occasions, when it constructed a wall around a military compound and used a recently built structure, authorised by MINURSO to be used as a briefing room, as a police station. Both violations took place in the vicinity of Smara (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
4 to 10 September 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
28 August to 3 September 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): During the reporting period, MINURSO continued to observe a pro-independence demonstration that had started on 26 August on the eastern side of the berm. For four consecutive days, approximately 100 participants gathered in close proximity to a Royal Moroccan Army’s strong point, in the vicinity of Team Site Mahbas (northeastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). On 30 August, the demonstrators peacefully dismantled the camp and dispersed.
21 to 27 August 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 26 August, MINURSO observed a pro-independence demonstration of approximately 100 participants on the eastern side of the berm, in close proximity to a Royal Moroccan Army’s strong point, in the vicinity of Team Site Mahbas (northeastem part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The demonstrators peacefully dispersed in the evening.
14 to 20 August 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
7 to 13 August 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
31 July to 6 August 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
24 to 30 July 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
17 to 23 July 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
10 to 16 July 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
3 to 9 Jew 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR.
26 June to 2 Julv 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 25 June, Frente Polisario’s leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz, wrote to the Secretary-General to protest the repression of pro-independence demonstrations by Moroccan 26 June to 2 Julv 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 25 June, Frente Polisario’s leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz, wrote to the Secretary-General to protest the repression of pro-independence demonstrations by Moroccan security forces, in Laayoune, during a visit by members of the European Parliament. He also reiterated his call for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Saharawi political prisoners.
19 to 25 June 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): At a 19 June gathering of the Moroccan Istiqlal party in Laayoune’s main square, its Secretary-General called for the defense of Morocco’s territorial integrity and advancing regionalization of the “southern provinces”. During 19 to 20 June, the Special Rapporteur on Human Trafficking visited Dakhla. On 22 June, demonstrations took place in Laayoune during the visit of a European Parliament delegation. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of 11,220 sqm of land in the Mijek area, and 10,000 sqm in the Mehaires area, and destroyed 25 cluster munitions (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). Mine clearance activities have now been suspended until 31 August.
12 to 18 June 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 17 June, a former Saharawi political detainee entered the MINURSO compound in Laayoune and asked for the protection of the United Nations from alleged police harassment and ill-treatment. Further to discussions with MINURSO personnel, he left the compound within an hour accompanied by the president of Morocco’s Regional Centre for Human Rights. On the same day, a small group of demonstrators protested against the conditions of living in the Tindouf refugee camps outside the Rabouni assembly hall (Algeria) where Frente Polisario Secretary-General, Mohammed Abdelaziz was attending an event. During the period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 27,750 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
5 to 11 June 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
29 May to 4 June 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 1 June, a pro- independence demonstration took place at the berm, in the vicinity of Bir Lahlou (north-eastern part of the Territory, controlled by the Frente Polisario). During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 23,160 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Mahbas (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
22 to 28 May 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 21 May, MINURSO was informed of an activist group request to hold a peaceful demonstration in Laayoune on 22 May – the first such known request – had been denied by the authorities under the Public Order Code, as the group was not legally registered. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared 14,943 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
15 to 21 May 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): Since 20 May, Frente Polisario’s 40th anniversary’s celebrations have been on-going in Tifariti (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by the Frente Polisario). In Nouakchott (Mauritania), former Frente Polisario police officer, Mustapha Ould Sidi Mouloud, reportedly started a hunger strike on 20 May in front of the UNHCR office to protest the continued separation from his family who remains in the refugee camps south of Tindouf. Mr. Ould Sidi Mouloud was arrested in September 2010 by the Frente Polisario and handed over to UNHCR Mauritania in December 2010. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 13,750 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Awsard (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
8 to 14 May 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 9 May, beneficiaries of the UNHCR-led Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) chanted slogans in favour of the self-determination of the Territory as Moroccan police forces were seen taking pictures and recording the arrival of the group outside of Laayoune airport. In Smara (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco), a convoy of CBMs beneficiaries was briefly prevented by Moroccan security forces from entering the city as local host families were chanting pro-Frente Polisario slogans. Further to the mediation of UNHCR, the convoy was allowed to proceed. During the reporting period, MlNURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 31,700 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Smara and Awsard (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
1 to 7 May 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): Demonstrations, involving hundreds of participants, resumed in Laayoune and Smara on 4 and 5 May to protest the absence of a human rights monitoring mandate for MINURSO and in support of the self-determination of the Territory. Clashes in Laayoune between security forces and Sahrawi protesters resulted in injuries on both sides. In two letters to the Secretary-General dated 27 April and 2 May, Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz denounced the repression by Moroccan security forces of the demonstrations that took place in Laayoune, Smara, Boujdour and Dakhla during the last week of April. Mr. Abdelaziz reiterated his call for a UN human rights mechanism in Western Sahara. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 7,700 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Mahbas (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco) and Awsard (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
24 to 30 April 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 25 April, demonstrations erupted in Laayoune in the wake of the adoption of Security Council resolution 2099 (2013), to protest the absence of a human rights monitoring mandate for MINURSO and in support of the self-determination of the Territory. The unrest is still ongoing, affecting to a lesser extent the cities of Smara and Boujdor. MINURSO witnessed a significant deployment of Moroccan security forces across the city. After four days of demonstrations, more than forty injuries were reported including at least 12 police officers as Moroccan security forces repeatedly dispersed the crowd. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 5,000 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Smara (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
17 to 23 April 2013: No mention
10 to 16 April 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 11 April, Moroccan authorities removed all flags, except one, from the perimeter of the MINURSO compounds in Laayoune. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 39,300 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
3 to 9 April 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 3 April, MINURSO national staff embarked on a work stoppage to protest plans for a reduction of five national posts in the 2014/15 budget period. This reduction is further to budget cuts mandated by Headquarters for all peacekeeping operations. On 9 April, unidentified individuals deliberately cut electrical power cables supplying MINURSO Headquarters with electricity. SRSG Weisbrod-Weber held several meetings with the National Staff Committee and with the Chief Mission Support to come to terms and persuade staff to return to work, but the protest is ongoing. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 47,800 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
27 March to 2 April 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a letter to the Secretary-General dated 30 March, Frente Polisario leader Mohammed Abdelaziz protested the survey conducted off of the coast of Western Sahara on behalf of the petroleum company Total, as well as the continued exploitation of natural resources of the Territory by Morocco. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 27,000 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Oum Dreyga area (western part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
20 to 26 March 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): From 22 to 24 March, the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General (PESG) on Western Sahara, Ambassador Christopher Ross, visited the Territory where he held extensive meetings with local authorities and civil society organizations. During his visit, small-scale demonstrations by pro-independence activists took place in Laayoune and were dispersed by Moroccan security forces. On the morning of 22 March, five young Saharawi climbed over the wall of the MINURSO Team Site in Smara (north-western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco) and refused to leave before meeting with the PESG to voice their socio-economic grievances. Four of the five intruders already had been involved in a similar incident in October 2012. MINURSO coordinated with local authorities and community leaders to persuade the group to depart, which they did during the night. The situation returned to normal and no harm to UN personnel or property was reported. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 35,000 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Awsard (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
13 to 19 March 2013: No mention
6 to 12 March 2013: No mention
27 February to 5 March 2013: No mention
20 to 26 February 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): During the last Violation Working Group, MINURSO confirmed that the Royal Moroccan Army violated the Military Agreement No.1 on two occasions when it built two additional observation posts in the vicinity of Team Site Smara (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). Frente Polisario also violated the Military Agreement twice when MINURSO observed the presence of Frente Polisario military personnel inside the Buffer Strip, in the vicinity of Team Site Mijek (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). In a letter to the Secretary-General dated 17 February, Frente Polisario leader Mohammed Abdelaziz protested the sentencing by a Moroccan military court of Saharawi civilians to varying jail terms for their participation in the Gdeim Izik events of 8 November 2010, which resulted in the killing of 11 Moroccan security officers. He also called for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Saharawi political prisoners. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 313 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara area (northwestern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
13 to 19 February 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 16 February, a military court in Rabat sentenced 25 Saharawi civilians to varying jail terms for their participation in the Gdeim Izik events of 8 November 2010, which resulted in the killing of 11 Moroccan security officers. Demonstrations have been organized in protest in the Tindouf refugee camps (Algeria). On 16 February, a Frente Polisario patrol vehicle drove over a mine in the Mijek area (eastern part of the berm, controlled by Frente Polisario). While the vehicle was entirely destroyed, no injury was reported among the three Frente Polisario military personnel on-board the vehicle. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 430 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara area (northwestern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
6 to 12 February 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): During the last Violation Working Group, MINURSO confirmed that the Royal Moroccan Army had violated Military Agreement No.1 on eight occasions, when it installed GSM antennas in five separate locations, increased the length of two trenches in the Bir Guandouz area (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco) and raised a wall in the Awsard area (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). Frente Polisario also violated Military Agreement No.1 when MINURSO observed Frente Polisario armed forces inside the buffer strip in the vicinity of Mijek (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). UNHCR, with the logistic support of MINURSO, conducted flights as part of the family visit exchange programme between the part of the Territory controlled by Morocco and the refugee camps in Tindouf. A MINURSO police officer present at the Tindouf airport to monitor the boarding of the beneficiaries was asked by Algerian police officers not to observe the security check of the beneficiaries, in contradiction to the agreement between UNHCR and Algeria. MINURSO referred the issue to UNHCR. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 200 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
30 January to 5 February 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a letter dated 3 February, Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz protested the military trial by a Moroccan military court in Sale (Morocco) of 24 Sahrawis arrested subsequent to the November 2010 dismantlement of the Gdeim Izik camp. Initially scheduled to be held on 1 February, the trial was adjourned to 8 February. He also called for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Sahrawi political prisoners. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 195 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Awsard area (northern part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
23 to 29 January 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): From 23 to 28 January, UNHCR, with the logistic support of MINURSO, conducted flights as part of the family visit exchange programme between the part of the Territory controlled by Morocco and the refugee camps in Tindouf. Four programme beneficiaries, who had traveled from Tindouf asked UNCHR to remain in the Territory as voluntary retumees. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 107 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara and Mahbas areas (northwestern part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
16 to 22 January 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 18 January, an elderly Saharawi was severely injured in a mine accident, near Team Site Mijek (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario) and was subsequently evacuated to Tindouf hospital by MINURSO. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 106 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
9 to 15 January 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): UNHCR flights, chartered as part of the family visit exchange programme, were cancelled twice in the week for technical reasons, resulting in a demonstration of Saharawi beneficiaries in the Tindouf refugee camps on 14 January. In a letter dated 10 January, Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz protested the anticipated military trial by a Moroccan military court of the Saharawis arrested subsequent to the November 2010 dismantlement of the Gdeim Izik camp. He also called for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Saharawi political prisoners. During the period, MlNURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 144 sqkm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara and Mahbas areas (northwestern part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
2 to 8 January 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 4 January, MINURSO received a letter from Lieutenant General Bennani, Commander of the Southern Zone from the Royal Moroccan Army (RMA) protesting against the demonstration that took place on 31 December 2012 at the berm near Mahbas (north-eastern part of the Frente POLISARIO-controlled territory). On this occasion, the RMA confirmed that one of its personnel stationed at the berm had fired five warning shots in reaction to the demonstration. During the reporting period, MlNURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 104 sq km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). MINURSO confirmed that the RMA had violated Military Agreement No.1 on seven occasions in November and December 2012. These relate to the extension of a defensive trench by 2170 metres in the Bir Gandouz area (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco), the replacement of one radar in the vicinity of Mahbas (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco), and the construction of an antenna in the Oum Dreyga area (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). The RMA also violated Military Agreement No.1 when it redeployed troops in three occasions in the Oum Dreyga and Awsard area (southwestern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco), and when it conducted firing training activities in the restricted area in the vicinity of Awsard. MlNURSO’s freedom of movement was also hampered in one occasion when military observers were prevented from visiting an RMA training centre in the Awsard area.
5 to 11 June 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): NSTR
29 May to 4 June 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 1 June, a pro- independence demonstration took place at the berm, in the vicinity of Bir Lahlou (north-eastern part of the Territory, controlled by the Frente Polisario). During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 23,160 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Mahbas (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
22 to 28 May 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 21 May, MINURSO was informed of an activist group request to hold a peaceful demonstration in Laayoune on 22 May – the first such known request – had been denied by the authorities under the Public Order Code, as the group was not legally registered. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared 14,943 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
15 to 21 May 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): Since 20 May, Frente Polisario’s 40th anniversary’s celebrations have been on-going in Tifariti (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by the Frente Polisario). In Nouakchott (Mauritania), former Frente Polisario police officer, Mustapha Ould Sidi Mouloud, reportedly started a hunger strike on 20 May in front of the UNHCR office to protest the continued separation from his family who remains in the refugee camps south of Tindouf. Mr. Ould Sidi Mouloud was arrested in September 2010 by the Frente Polisario and handed over to UNHCR Mauritania in December 2010. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 13,750 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Awsard (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
8 to 14 May 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 9 May, beneficiaries of the UNHCR-led Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) chanted slogans in favour of the self-determination of the Territory as Moroccan police forces were seen taking pictures and recording the arrival of the group outside of Laayoune airport. In Smara (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco), a convoy of CBMs beneficiaries was briefly prevented by Moroccan security forces from entering the city as local host families were chanting pro-Frente Polisario slogans. Further to the mediation of UNHCR, the convoy was allowed to proceed. During the reporting period, MlNURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 31,700 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Smara and Awsard (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
1 to 7 May 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): Demonstrations, involving hundreds of participants, resumed in Laayoune and Smara on 4 and 5 May to protest the absence of a human rights monitoring mandate for MINURSO and in support of the self-determination of the Territory. Clashes in Laayoune between security forces and Sahrawi protesters resulted in injuries on both sides. In two letters to the Secretary-General dated 27 April and 2 May, Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz denounced the repression by Moroccan security forces of the demonstrations that took place in Laayoune, Smara, Boujdour and Dakhla during the last week of April. Mr. Abdelaziz reiterated his call for a UN human rights mechanism in Western Sahara. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 7,700 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Mahbas (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco) and Awsard (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
24 to 30 April 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 25 April, demonstrations erupted in Laayoune in the wake of the adoption of Security Council resolution 2099 (2013), to protest the absence of a human rights monitoring mandate for MINURSO and in support of the self-determination of the Territory. The unrest is still ongoing, affecting to a lesser extent the cities of Smara and Boujdor. MINURSO witnessed a significant deployment of Moroccan security forces across the city. After four days of demonstrations, more than forty injuries were reported including at least 12 police officers as Moroccan security forces repeatedly dispersed the crowd. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 5,000 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Smara (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
17 to 23 April 2013: No mention
10 to 16 April 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 11 April, Moroccan authorities removed all flags, except one, from the perimeter of the MINURSO compounds in Laayoune. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 39,300 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
3 to 9 April 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 3 April, MINURSO national staff embarked on a work stoppage to protest plans for a reduction of five national posts in the 2014/15 budget period. This reduction is further to budget cuts mandated by Headquarters for all peacekeeping operations. On 9 April, unidentified individuals deliberately cut electrical power cables supplying MINURSO Headquarters with electricity. SRSG Weisbrod-Weber held several meetings with the National Staff Committee and with the Chief Mission Support to come to terms and persuade staff to return to work, but the protest is ongoing. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 47,800 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
27 March to 2 April 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a letter to the Secretary-General dated 30 March, Frente Polisario leader Mohammed Abdelaziz protested the survey conducted off of the coast of Western Sahara on behalf of the petroleum company Total, as well as the continued exploitation of natural resources of the Territory by Morocco. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 27,000 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Oum Dreyga area (western part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
20 to 26 March 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): From 22 to 24 March, the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General (PESG) on Western Sahara, Ambassador Christopher Ross, visited the Territory where he held extensive meetings with local authorities and civil society organizations. During his visit, small-scale demonstrations by pro-independence activists took place in Laayoune and were dispersed by Moroccan security forces. On the morning of 22 March, five young Saharawi climbed over the wall of the MINURSO Team Site in Smara (north-western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco) and refused to leave before meeting with the PESG to voice their socio-economic grievances. Four of the five intruders already had been involved in a similar incident in October 2012. MINURSO coordinated with local authorities and community leaders to persuade the group to depart, which they did during the night. The situation returned to normal and no harm to UN personnel or property was reported. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 35,000 sqm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the vicinity of Awsard (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
13 to 19 March 2013: No mention
6 to 12 March 2013: No mention
27 February to 5 March 2013: No mention
20 to 26 February 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): During the last Violation Working Group, MINURSO confirmed that the Royal Moroccan Army violated the Military Agreement No.1 on two occasions when it built two additional observation posts in the vicinity of Team Site Smara (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). Frente Polisario also violated the Military Agreement twice when MINURSO observed the presence of Frente Polisario military personnel inside the Buffer Strip, in the vicinity of Team Site Mijek (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). In a letter to the Secretary-General dated 17 February, Frente Polisario leader Mohammed Abdelaziz protested the sentencing by a Moroccan military court of Saharawi civilians to varying jail terms for their participation in the Gdeim Izik events of 8 November 2010, which resulted in the killing of 11 Moroccan security officers. He also called for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Saharawi political prisoners. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 313 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara area (northwestern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
13 to 19 February 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 16 February, a military court in Rabat sentenced 25 Saharawi civilians to varying jail terms for their participation in the Gdeim Izik events of 8 November 2010, which resulted in the killing of 11 Moroccan security officers. Demonstrations have been organized in protest in the Tindouf refugee camps (Algeria). On 16 February, a Frente Polisario patrol vehicle drove over a mine in the Mijek area (eastern part of the berm, controlled by Frente Polisario). While the vehicle was entirely destroyed, no injury was reported among the three Frente Polisario military personnel on-board the vehicle. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 430 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara area (northwestern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco).
6 to 12 February 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): During the last Violation Working Group, MINURSO confirmed that the Royal Moroccan Army had violated Military Agreement No.1 on eight occasions, when it installed GSM antennas in five separate locations, increased the length of two trenches in the Bir Guandouz area (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco) and raised a wall in the Awsard area (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). Frente Polisario also violated Military Agreement No.1 when MINURSO observed Frente Polisario armed forces inside the buffer strip in the vicinity of Mijek (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). UNHCR, with the logistic support of MINURSO, conducted flights as part of the family visit exchange programme between the part of the Territory controlled by Morocco and the refugee camps in Tindouf. A MINURSO police officer present at the Tindouf airport to monitor the boarding of the beneficiaries was asked by Algerian police officers not to observe the security check of the beneficiaries, in contradiction to the agreement between UNHCR and Algeria. MINURSO referred the issue to UNHCR. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 200 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
30 January to 5 February 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): In a letter dated 3 February, Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz protested the military trial by a Moroccan military court in Sale (Morocco) of 24 Sahrawis arrested subsequent to the November 2010 dismantlement of the Gdeim Izik camp. Initially scheduled to be held on 1 February, the trial was adjourned to 8 February. He also called for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Sahrawi political prisoners. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 195 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Awsard area (northern part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
23 to 29 January 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): From 23 to 28 January, UNHCR, with the logistic support of MINURSO, conducted flights as part of the family visit exchange programme between the part of the Territory controlled by Morocco and the refugee camps in Tindouf. Four programme beneficiaries, who had traveled from Tindouf asked UNCHR to remain in the Territory as voluntary retumees. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 107 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara and Mahbas areas (northwestern part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
16 to 22 January 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 18 January, an elderly Saharawi was severely injured in a mine accident, near Team Site Mijek (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario) and was subsequently evacuated to Tindouf hospital by MINURSO. During the reporting period, MINURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 106 sq. km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario).
9 to 15 January 2013:Western Sahara (MINURSO): UNHCR flights, chartered as part of the family visit exchange programme, were cancelled twice in the week for technical reasons, resulting in a demonstration of Saharawi beneficiaries in the Tindouf refugee camps on 14 January. In a letter dated 10 January, Frente Polisario leader, Mohammed Abdelaziz protested the anticipated military trial by a Moroccan military court of the Saharawis arrested subsequent to the November 2010 dismantlement of the Gdeim Izik camp. He also called for an independent UN human rights monitoring mechanism for Western Sahara, and the release of Saharawi political prisoners. During the period, MlNURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 144 sqkm of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). The Royal Moroccan Army also conducted demining activities in the Smara and Mahbas areas (northwestern part of the berm, controlled by Morocco).
2 to 8 January 2013: Western Sahara (MINURSO): On 4 January, MINURSO received a letter from Lieutenant General Bennani, Commander of the Southern Zone from the Royal Moroccan Army (RMA) protesting against the demonstration that took place on 31 December 2012 at the berm near Mahbas (north-eastern part of the Frente POLISARIO-controlled territory). On this occasion, the RMA confirmed that one of its personnel stationed at the berm had fired five warning shots in reaction to the demonstration. During the reporting period, MlNURSO’s demining implementing partner, Action on Armed Violence, cleared a total of over 104 sq km of land in the Mijek area (eastern part of the Territory, controlled by Frente Polisario). MINURSO confirmed that the RMA had violated Military Agreement No.1 on seven occasions in November and December 2012. These relate to the extension of a defensive trench by 2170 metres in the Bir Gandouz area (southern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco), the replacement of one radar in the vicinity of Mahbas (northern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco), and the construction of an antenna in the Oum Dreyga area (western part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco). The RMA also violated Military Agreement No.1 when it redeployed troops in three occasions in the Oum Dreyga and Awsard area (southwestern part of the Territory, controlled by Morocco), and when it conducted firing training activities in the restricted area in the vicinity of Awsard. MlNURSO’s freedom of movement was also hampered in one occasion when military observers were prevented from visiting an RMA training centre in the Awsard area.
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