Makhzen Suffers Major Setback at World Social Forum as Sahrawi Cause Draws Broad International Solidarity
Morocco’s participation in the 17th World Social Forum in Cotonou, Benin, has resulted in a major setback for the Makhzen’s efforts to promote its position on Western Sahara, as delegations from across the world rallied around the Sahrawi cause and Moroccan-organized workshops drew little participation.
By Hana Saada
COTONOU, Benin — The Moroccan Makhzen regime has suffered a major setback in its efforts to promote colonialist positions during its participation in the 17th edition of the World Social Forum in Cotonou, Benin.
Despite repeated manoeuvres by the Moroccan delegation, it failed to stem the broad wave of solidarity with the Sahrawi cause, as delegations from different continents attended activities organized by the Sahrawi delegation throughout the global gathering.
Moroccan workshops deserted
The participation of the Moroccan occupation delegation, meanwhile, suffered a further setback, with the workshops organized by Morocco drawing little participation amid rejection of its positions, which contradict international legality and the principles upheld by the Forum.
The Moroccan delegation was also visibly irritated by the admiration expressed by Forum officials for the cultural diversity showcased by Algeria at its stand.
It sought through various means to offset the setback and project a more favourable image of its participation, but the outcome remained unequivocal.
Sahrawi and Palestinian causes take centre stage
The Sahrawi cause occupied a prominent place throughout the Forum, with the Sahrawi delegation organizing several activities over three days, including discussion panels and workshops highlighting the cause of the Sahrawi people and bringing together representatives of civil society organizations.
Delegations participating in the Forum also organized a major march in support of the struggles of the Sahrawi and Palestinian peoples.
Civil society representatives carried banners and chanted slogans reflecting their peoples’ aspirations while calling for solutions to the humanitarian and environmental crises affecting the world.
During the march, the Sahrawi delegation carried the flag of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic and reaffirmed the Sahrawi people’s right to freedom and independence.
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