La Laguna Council Strengthens Support for Sahrawi Community

The council of San Cristóbal de La Laguna has taken a decisive step in reinforcing its commitment to the Sahrawi people by approving a significant proposal put forth by Unidas Podemos. This initiative marks a renewed effort to enhance support for a community that has faced longstanding challenges and hardships.

Enhancing Institutional Ties with Smara

This newly approved initiative aims to strengthen institutional, social, and humanitarian collaboration with the Sahrawi community, reaffirming the council’s dedication to international law and previous agreements established in April 2025. A central focus of this proposal is the enhancement of cooperation with the Wilaya of Smara, a partnership that has been nurtured since the 1990s. The council envisions developing decentralized international cooperation programs that will concentrate on social, educational, cultural, and humanitarian initiatives. These programs are designed to align with municipal competencies and ensure coordination with relevant authorities to maximize their impact.

Political Recognition and Symbolic Support

In a significant political gesture, the council has reiterated its recognition of the Polisario Front as the legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people. This recognition is in accordance with the rulings of the Court of Justice of the European Union and paves the way for potential institutional meetings with foreign relations authorities. Idaira Afonso, the proponent of the motion, underscored the urgency of addressing the plight of the Sahrawi people, who have endured harsh living conditions for decades. She passionately stated, “We cannot forget the plight of thousands of people living just a few kilometres from our shores in inhumane conditions for decades. This situation cannot be postponed for another 50 years; the sister population of the Sahara has the right to a dignified and secure life.”

Health Initiatives and Humanitarian Aid

On the health front, the council has called upon the Government of the Canary Islands to renew its collaboration agreement with the Canary Health Service and the Canary Association of Solidarity with the Sahrawi People. This renewal is crucial for maintaining ongoing humanitarian programs that are vital for the Sahrawi population. The agreements further reinforce La Laguna’s support for the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination, aligning with United Nations resolutions and other relevant international instruments. The council is steadfast in its commitment to upholding human rights in Western Sahara and supporting the efforts of international organizations dedicated to this cause.

Institutional Engagement and Local Initiatives

To strengthen institutional relations, the council plans to organize a visit to Smara, which will allow council members to witness firsthand the social, cultural, and humanitarian projects associated with their partnership. This visit is expected to provide valuable insights into the actual conditions faced by the Sahrawi people and the progress of cooperative actions. Additionally, the council intends to invite the representative of the Polisario Front in Spain for an institutional visit to San Cristóbal de La Laguna, fostering social, cultural, and humanitarian exchanges that can further solidify these ties.

Idaira Afonso remarked on the potential benefits of a delegation from La Laguna visiting the Wilaya of Smara, emphasizing that such a visit would provide invaluable insights into the realities on the ground and the effectiveness of their collaborative efforts. Moreover, the council is committed to intensifying local initiatives aimed at raising awareness, promoting cooperation, and providing humanitarian support for the Sahrawi people. This will involve collaboration with various organizations dedicated to this cause within the municipality, ensuring that the efforts resonate within the local community.

Key points

• The council of San Cristóbal de La Laguna approved a proposal from Unidas Podemos to enhance cooperation with the Sahrawi people.
• Institutional cooperation with the Wilaya of Smara will focus on social, educational, cultural, and humanitarian programs.
• The council recognizes the Polisario Front as the legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people.
• A call has been made to renew collaboration agreements for health services supporting the Sahrawi population.
• Plans for institutional visits to Smara and invitations to the Polisario Front representative aim to strengthen ties.
• Local actions will be intensified to raise awareness and support for the Sahrawi people.