Algeria’s diplomacy crisis is intensifying as the UN Security Council moves closer to endorsing Morocco’s Sahara autonomy plan. This development marks a significant challenge for Algeria, which has long supported the Polisario Front, and signals growing diplomatic isolation for the North African nation.
Historical Roots of Algeria’s Sahara Diplomacy
Algeria’s influence on Sahara affairs was historically strong, built during its oil boom and Cold War years. The country relied on financial leverage and ideological alignment to secure backing for the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (RASD) across Africa. However, in today’s rules-based global order, these tactics have largely lost credibility, leaving Algeria unable to sway international decisions effectively.
Declining Influence and Internal Challenges
Once hailed as a revolutionary leader in anti-colonial solidarity, Algeria’s ideological power has waned. The current leadership, dominated by military and business elites, faces economic stagnation, internal discontent, and a disillusioned youth population. Meanwhile, traditional partners such as Russia and China have adopted more pragmatic foreign policies, reducing Algeria’s leverage on the global stage.
Morocco’s Autonomy Plan Gains Ground
In contrast, Morocco’s Sahara autonomy proposal is gaining international recognition from countries across Africa and Europe, including Ghana and Belgium, for providing a practical path to regional stability. Even Moscow is reportedly reconsidering its support. With the UN Security Council vote imminent, Algeria appears unprepared to adapt, relying instead on the dwindling legitimacy of the Polisario Front.
Implications for Algeria’s Foreign Policy
This unfolding Algeria diplomacy crisis highlights the limitations of ideology-driven foreign policy in the modern era. Without strategic reform, Algeria risks further isolation as regional and international actors increasingly favor practical solutions over outdated alliances. Analysts warn that failure to respond could weaken Algeria’s long-term regional influence and diplomatic credibility.
Source:
For more updates about Algeria, visit the Algeria News Section