Global Youth Solidarity Forum Renews Unwavering Support for Sahrawi Self-Determination

BY: Dr. Hana Saada  

Algiers, Algeria | October 28th, 2024 — In a resounding display of international solidarity, the Third International Youth Forum for Solidarity with Western Sahara wrapped up on October 13, 2024, in Bilbao, Basque Country. The event, attended by youth activists from around the globe, served as a powerful affirmation of commitment to the Sahrawi people’s unyielding right to self-determination and independence. Key resolutions from the forum underscored the importance of sustained activism, international cooperation, and a united front against the media blackout affecting Western Sahara’s ongoing conflict.

Forum attendees issued a strong declaration of unwavering support for the Sahrawi people’s inalienable right to self-determination, asserting this right as the bedrock of justice and an essential step toward ending the prolonged occupation of Western Sahara. Reaffirming the legitimacy of this demand within the framework of international law and United Nations resolutions, participants reiterated their collective responsibility to champion the Sahrawi cause.

Central to the forum’s discussions was the pivotal role of Sahrawi youth in the ongoing struggle. Participants recognized and celebrated the resilience of young Sahrawis, particularly those in refugee camps, occupied territories, and the diaspora, who persistently advocate for their homeland through peaceful resistance. A collective pledge was made to fortify these youth capacities and deepen their engagement in the Sahrawi national struggle through both domestic and international initiatives.

The forum also underscored the significance of building robust global youth networks in support of the Sahrawi cause. Recognizing this gathering as a foundational step toward a unified global platform, attendees committed to enhancing cooperation among youth and international organizations. This collaboration aims to consolidate global efforts and elevate awareness about the Sahrawi plight.

Addressing the information blackout surrounding the issue, the forum issued a rallying call to confront the global media’s persistent silence. Participants emphasized the urgent need to intensify efforts to break the imposed media barrier and enhance global awareness of the Sahrawi people’s suffering. The forum called upon international media outlets to fulfill their duty by amplifying this ongoing struggle and utilizing their platforms to advocate for Sahrawi rights.

The forum’s closing statements honored the resilience of the Sahrawi people who continue to withstand oppression and hardship under occupation. Emphasis was placed on the importance of political and humanitarian support for Sahrawis living in refugee camps and occupied areas. The forum urged for sustained international efforts to curb daily acts of violence and repression.

Looking to the future, participants agreed on the necessity of developing youth-centered strategies to maintain hope and work toward a free and independent Western Sahara. Young Sahrawis were encouraged to persist in both diplomatic and grassroots advocacy, reinforcing ties with global solidarity movements to achieve their aspirations.

Forum Recommendations:

• Establish regular international youth forums to support the Sahrawi cause.
• Amplify diplomatic and public efforts to press the international community for actionable steps to end occupation.
• Launch global awareness campaigns to educate the world on Sahrawi rights to self-determination and independence.
• Expand youth networks focused on the Sahrawi issue, developing digital platforms and media outlets to unify efforts.

Concluding with deep gratitude, forum participants extended appreciation to all those who contributed to the event’s success, especially the Sahrawi Youth Union (UJSARIO), the Friends of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic Association in Álava, and supporting local and international organizations. Participants expressed their unwavering commitment to standing by the Sahrawi people in their quest for freedom and full independence across the entirety of Western Sahara.

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