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Meknes – Morocco’s permanent Ambassador to Geneva Omar Zniber, on September 16, exposed Algeria’s abuse of human rights in the Tindouf camps.
Zniber explained Algeria’s multiple violations undermine the international agreement on human rights in the 82th meeting of the Standing Committee of the UNHCR in Geneva.
In this regard, Zniber stated that Morocco continues to express its concern regarding Algeria’s devolution of power to the Polisario armed organization in the Tindouf camps. The move is a unique and unprecedented situation in the international community, the diplomat said.
He also condemned the deployment of military forces in the Tindouf camps, which he claimed was in breach of international obligations requiring host countries to ensure the asylum’s humanitarian character.
Read more: Moroccan Ambassador in Geneva Exposes Algerian Sahara Claims
Citing the killing of the two young Sahrawis by an Algerian army patrol, the envoy denounced Algeria for atrocious crimes committed against Tindouf camp residents. The two young men were burned alive.
Zniber also condemned the recruitment of child soldiers in Tindouf, describing it a violation of international children’s rights. He also shed light on the ongoing diversion of humanitarian aid meant for the people living in the camps.
The ambassador criticized Algeria for refusing to conduct a census of Tindouf’s population. Zniber noted the step will prevent fraud and criminality, including human trafficking.
In response to Algeria’s representative allegations, Zniber discussed Morocco’s development efforts in the southern provinces, noting the socioeconomic development in Western Sahara is evident in substantial public investment and infrastructure.
Zniber concluded that “the situation in the Moroccan Sahara is much better than that in Algeria.” He noted the deteriorating socio-political situation in Algeria “where hundreds of thousands of people march through the streets every day, claiming their most basic rights and the release of journalists and political detainees.”
The Moroccan diplomat reiterated Morocco’s commitment, under King Mohammed VI, to provide humanitarian support for refugees.
