Not another failed state: Toward a realistic solution in the Western Sahara

Abstract

One of Africa's most bitter territorial disputes, with profound implications for both regional and global stability and security, the “question of Western Sahara” has defied the international community's efforts to facilitate its “solution” for decades. This article explores the historical background to the conflict, the viability of the self-proclaimed “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic,” and the strategic significance of the integration of both the Saharan territory and the Maghreb region, before concluding with the outlines of a realistic approach to resolving the conflict. © 2010 Taylor & Francis Group, Ltd.