UN warns of security risks as Russia vetoes MINURSO mandate renewal
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· International institutions & agencies (UN, WTO, IMF...)· Prelims·
UNSC veto power and peacekeeping mandates: a GS2 International Relations and security study.
Why in news
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned of security risks in Western Sahara after the UN Security Council failed to renew the MINURSO mandate due to a Russian veto.
Background
The MINURSO peacekeeping mission, which lasted 35 years, expired on Sunday following a Russian veto of a US resolution. The UN initiated a liquidation phase for the mission on November 1, 2026.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyMINURSO: United Nations peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara
- FactMINURSO mandate duration: 35 years
- PlaceWestern Sahara: Region involving Morocco, Algeria, and the Polisario Front
- FactLiquidation phase start date: November 1, 2026
Prelims practice question
With reference to MINURSO, consider the following statements:
- The UN initiated a liquidation phase for the mission on November 1, 2025.
- The mission is located in a region involving Morocco, Algeria, and the Polisario Front.
- The MINURSO peacekeeping mission lasted for 35 years.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)1 and 3 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The liquidation phase starts on November 1, 2026.
For Mains
Q. Examine the implications of the expiration of the MINURSO mandate on regional stability in Western Sahara and the role of the UN Security Council's veto power in peacekeeping.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Geopolitical deadlock: Russian veto power obstructing consensus on Western Sahara's sovereignty
- Security vacuum: Risk of escalating hostilities between Morocco, Algeria, and the Polisario Front
- Institutional paralysis: Challenges in maintaining long-term peacekeeping mandates amidst great power rivalry
Keywords: UN Security Council · Veto Power · Peacekeeping Mandate · Western Sahara · Geopolitical Stability
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