Western Sahara dumped by Trump for peace deal between Israel and Morocco

This sends the wrong signal to those involved in a conflict, that might is right and good behaviour would not be rewarded. The latest absurd signal of an apparent approval of such misbehavior is the outgoing Trump administration's announcement that it would recognize Morocco's illegal occupation of Western Sahara. This flies in the face of what Morocco itself agreed to as matter of the Settlement Plan. Moreover, it's entirely contrary to what the International Court of Justice concluded in 1975, that Morocco did not have any claim to territorial rights in Western Sahara. Much of U.S. diplomacy in Africa has been damaged by Trump’s recent announcement. 

We’re hopeful that the U.S. president-elect Joe Biden, a man of integrity, familiar with the legacy of colonialism in Africa, and well-versed in foreign policy, will have a positive influence on self-determination in Western Sahara. A just and lasting solution - one in conformance with long-established human rights and international law - in Africa's last colony will reliably contribute to stability in northwest Africa.

Australia, as a mid-size power is well placed to contribute positively to UN efforts to organise a referendum of self-determination in Western Sahara as it has experience in dealing with similar issues from its involvement in East Timor.

 Australia played a positive role in peacekeeping in Western Sahara and Australian soldiers are still remembered with admiration for their professionalism and spirit of mateship.  A total of 219 Australian military, mostly from the 1st Signals Regiment, took part in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara, primarily providing communication support to the UN staff in the Territory.

Peace in the important region of Northwest Africa serves the interests of all members of the international community. All states have a legal interest in the protection of international legal order and the UN Charter and its resolutions.