Morocco's Views on Western Sahara Rejected at Africa Forum

The 17th edition of the World Social Forum, held in Cotonou, the capital of Benin, brought together delegations from across Africa to discuss social, political and economic issues affecting the continent.

According to reports, Morocco's Makhzen — a term referring to the centre of political power around the Moroccan monarchy — attempted to promote its position on Western Sahara during the forum, but the effort reportedly ended in what was described as a resounding failure.

Participants at the event are said to have largely rejected Morocco's colonialist narrative regarding the territory, which continues to be widely regarded by activists and international observers as the last colony in Africa still awaiting full self-determination.

The forum reportedly featured efforts aimed at raising awareness of the situation in Western Sahara, with organisers seeking to inform participants about the ongoing struggle of its people for independence.

In parallel, Algerian youth delegations took part actively in the forum's sessions, focusing particularly on discussions concerning Africa's broader renewal and future development.

Their involvement was highlighted as reflecting a growing engagement of young Algerians in continental debates about unity, cooperation and social progress across Africa.

The World Social Forum, first launched as a gathering for civil society organisations, activists and academics, serves as a platform for debating global inequality, human rights and the legacies of colonialism.

This year's edition in Cotonou placed a strong emphasis on African identity and solidarity, particularly regarding peoples still seeking full independence from colonial-era claims.

The rejection of Morocco's position at the forum is being presented as evidence of continued international support for the cause of Western Sahara, despite Rabat's ongoing diplomatic efforts to gain wider recognition of its claims over the territory.

Observers note that such international gatherings remain an important arena where competing narratives over Western Sahara's status are debated, often reflecting broader shifts in African political opinion.

The presence and active role of Algerian youth at the event has also been noted as part of a wider trend of younger generations becoming more engaged in shaping discussions about Africa's political and social future.