Moroccans observed the 50th anniversary of the Green March on Thursday. This historic mass demonstration successfully pressured Spain to relinquish control of the disputed Western Sahara, ultimately paving the way for Morocco’s administration of the territory.
Celebratory events took place across the entire North African kingdom, including within the disputed region itself, notably in its largest city, Laayoune.
The anniversary is recognized as a national holiday, and Moroccans commemorate the march as a pivotal moment in concluding the era of colonial rule.
Remembering the Historic Demonstration
In Oued Roumane, a district of Salé near the capital Rabat, local organizations held lively marches. Youth clubs, NGOs, and sports associations proceeded down the main avenue, enthusiastically waving Moroccan flags.
Children carried portraits of the late King Hassan II, who originally led the demonstration, alongside images of his son, the current monarch, King Mohammed VI.
One demonstrator, Khadija Guerouaj, joined the celebrations with a group of women, singing and dancing. She declared, “Long live the King. The Sahara is Moroccan and here we are celebrating from our hearts.”
The Dispute Over Western Sahara
The Western Sahara, a vast, desert territory rich in phosphate resources, was under Spanish control until 1975. That year, hundreds of thousands of Moroccan civilians and soldiers crossed into the Spanish-held territory. This show of force ultimately persuaded General Francisco Franco to yield control.
Today, the region remains a point of contention. Both Morocco and the Polisario Front claim the territory. The Polisario Front operates from refugee camps in southwestern Algeria.
It asserts that it represents the Sahrawi people, who are native to the area. The group views Morocco as a subsequent colonial power that occupied the region after the Spanish withdrawal.
Diplomatic Milestone for Morocco
This year’s anniversary carries added weight for the Moroccan government due to a recent diplomatic success. Last week, the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution. For the first time, the resolution referred to Morocco’s autonomy plan for the territory as “a most feasible solution” to the ongoing dispute.
Said Housni, a demonstrator, expressed satisfaction with the Security Council’s phrasing. “I thank all those involved, everyone who organized this celebration and everyone behind the UN resolution,” he said.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI hailed the resolution as a major diplomatic victory. However, the Polisario Front has vowed to continue its fight.
The group insists on a promised referendum for self-determination that would include the option of full independence.
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