New Opportunities to Strengthen Recognition of the Moroccan Sahara Amid Upcoming Political Changes in Canada and the United Kingdom

ALDAR /Analysis

The international arena is anticipating political shifts that may bolster recognition of the Moroccan Sahara. With elections approaching in Canada and the United Kingdom, the potential rise of new leaders in both countries could open doors to fresh opportunities for Morocco in the areas of economic partnerships and diplomacy.

After nine years of governance under Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, leader of the Liberal Socialist Party, Canada appears to be on the cusp of a new political phase. According to the latest polls, the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, is expected to secure a victory in the federal elections scheduled for October 2025, garnering 45% of voting intentions. This anticipated shift could present Morocco with a significant opportunity to strengthen its relations with Canada, particularly regarding the Sahara issue. The new political orientation may lead to a shift in positions or increased support for Morocco’s claims.

In the United Kingdom, the situation is similarly unstable for the Labour Party under the leadership of Keir Starmer, which has failed to deliver on its electoral promises. Furthermore, the British public is increasingly frustrated by the government’s sluggish response to major post-Brexit issues. Amid mounting popular pressure for new general elections, a unique opportunity has emerged with the rise of a new political force, the “Reform Party,” led by Nigel Farage. Recent polls reveal an unprecedented political landscape in Britain, with the Reform Party projected to secure 26% of the votes, surpassing the Conservatives at 23%, while Labour holds onto 22%. This scenario sets the stage for a significant transformation in British politics, which may lead to a reassessment of the UK’s stance on major international issues, including the Moroccan Sahara.

These political changes present Morocco with golden opportunities to broaden its partnerships with Canada and the United Kingdom. On the economic front, bilateral relations in trade and investment are expected to strengthen, especially as the new political directions in these countries may lead to more flexible stances on key international issues. At the same time, security cooperation between Morocco, Canada, and the United Kingdom could become more robust in the context of combating terrorism and extremist groups, particularly in North Africa.

Amid these political developments, Moroccan diplomacy must prepare to seize these historic opportunities and leverage them in favor of its national cause. This includes building strategic alliances to enhance recognition of the Moroccan Sahara and achieving significant diplomatic gains on the international stage.

This delicate political moment requires active diplomatic strategies from Morocco to navigate these transformations, which could open new horizons for supporting Morocco’s positions in global forums.