Italian Councilor Makes Urgent Appeal for Sahrawi People at United Nations – Breaking News
New York, NY – In a powerful display of solidarity, Italian city councilor Lorenzo Favilli addressed the United Nations this week, passionately advocating for the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination. The intervention, during the work of the Fourth Committee, comes as the Sahrawi Network reaffirms its call for adherence to the United Nations Charter regarding the disputed territory of Western Sahara. This is a developing story, and archyde.com is providing up-to-the-minute coverage.
A Voice for the Voiceless at the Glass Palace
Favilli, a councilor from Fucecchio and a member of the Hurria Association of San Miniato, was among 196 activists, civil society representatives, and institutional figures who presented petitions to the UN. His presence underscored Italy’s growing commitment to the Sahrawi cause, a commitment that extends beyond diplomatic statements to tangible action. Italian solidarity was specifically highlighted as a model of “humanitarian diplomacy” during the proceedings.
The ‘Little Ambassadors of Peace’ Program: A Beacon of Hope
Central to Italy’s support is the “Little Ambassadors of Peace” program, set to welcome over two hundred Sahrawi children and their carers from the Tindouf refugee camps in the summer of 2025. This initiative provides a safe haven and a unique cultural exchange opportunity for children who have known little beyond the confines of the camps. Favilli eloquently described the program as “a daily practice of peace that translates the principles of the United Nations Charter into action.”
Speaking from the floor of the UN, Favilli emphasized the profound impact of the program: “The proximity between Italian cities and the Sahrawi people makes it possible every year to welcome Sahrawi minors…to spend two months, between July and August, in the company of a large group of volunteers. The name of the project is ‘Little Ambassadors of Peace,’ to underline the social and political significance that this journey has.”
Fifty Years of Conflict: A Historical Context
The Sahrawi people’s struggle for self-determination dates back to 1975, when Spain withdrew from Western Sahara, leading to a conflict with Morocco. Morocco currently controls most of the territory, while the Polisario Front, representing the Sahrawi people, administers a portion known as the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. The UN has long recognized the Sahrawi people’s right to a referendum on self-determination, but the vote has been repeatedly delayed due to disagreements over voter eligibility.
The Tindouf refugee camps, located in Algeria, have housed generations of Sahrawi refugees, relying heavily on international aid. The “Little Ambassadors of Peace” program offers these children a rare glimpse of a life beyond the camps, fostering hope and resilience. It’s a powerful example of grassroots diplomacy, demonstrating how local initiatives can contribute to broader international efforts.
A Plea for International Will
Favilli’s address wasn’t simply a recounting of a successful program; it was a direct appeal to the international community. “They cannot continue to live within a conflict that has now been going on for 50 years and which has led them to live far from their land of origin, which is illegally occupied,” he stated. “The solution to the issue depends on the international will to resolve it.” His words serve as a stark reminder that lasting peace requires sustained political engagement and a commitment to upholding international law.
The situation in Western Sahara remains a complex geopolitical challenge, demanding continued attention and a renewed commitment to finding a just and lasting solution. The dedication of individuals like Lorenzo Favilli, and the innovative programs like “Little Ambassadors of Peace,” offer a glimmer of hope for a future where the Sahrawi people can finally exercise their right to self-determination. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates on this crucial story and explore our coverage of international affairs and humanitarian efforts.
