Country Profile: wi

Western Sahara is a non-self-governing territory located on the northwest coast of Africa, bordered by Morocco, Mauritania, and Algeria. Following Spain's withdrawal in 1976, the territory has been embroiled in a conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front, leading to a protracted dispute over its sovereignty. While the region is predominantly arid, limited natural resources such as phosphates and iron ore, along with a small market-based economy, support local livelihoods. The native Sahrawi population faces challenges related to governance and integration amid significant Moroccan immigration and military presence.

Geography

Western Sahara is situated in Northern Africa, lying between Mauritania and Morocco with a coastline along the North Atlantic Ocean. Covering an area of approximately 266,000 sq km, it features predominantly flat desert terrain with minor elevation changes. The climate is characterized by hot, dry conditions, which severely limit agricultural opportunities.

1,110 km of coastline along the North Atlantic Ocean
Average elevation of 256 m, with the highest point at 805 m
Natural resources include phosphates and iron ore

People and Society

The estimated population of Western Sahara is 652,271 (as of July 2020), predominantly composed of Sahrawi and Moroccan residents. The majority of the population lives in urban areas, particularly in Laayoune, which accounts for over 40% of the territory's populace. The overwhelming majority are Muslim, and a variety of languages including Arabic and Spanish are spoken.

86.8% of the population resides in urban areas (2020)
The median age is 21.8 years
A population growth rate of 2.54% (2020 estimate)

Economy

Western Sahara has a small market-based economy primarily driven by fishing, phosphate mining, and tourism. The region faces economic challenges due to its disputed status, which complicates resource exploitation and limits development. The Moroccan government plays a central role in managing the local economy, significantly influencing employment and infrastructure.

GDP (PPP) estimated at $906.5 million (2007)
GDP per capita (PPP) roughly $2,500 (2007)
Main economic activities include phosphate extraction and fishing

Government

The territorial status of Western Sahara remains unresolved, with competing claims from Morocco and the Polisario Front, which has established a government-in-exile. Despite heavy Moroccan military presence, residents in the Moroccan-controlled areas partake in Moroccan elections, with no formal local governance structure recognized.

The territory is claimed by Morocco and challenged by the Polisario Front
Capital is unrecognized; administrative divisions are not officially established

Military and Security

The United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) has maintained a presence since 1991 to oversee the ceasefire agreement between Morocco and the Polisario Front. This mission still plays a critical role in monitoring tensions and ensuring peace within the region.

MINURSO deployed approximately 460 personnel as of November 2019
The mission is tasked with supporting UNHCR-led confidence-building measures

Energy

Western Sahara has virtually no energy production or consumption data. The territory relies on external sources for its energy needs, with a significant portion of its energy consumption coming from imports.

0 kWh of electricity production and consumption reported (2016)
58,000 kW of installed generating capacity (2016)

Transportation

Transportation infrastructure in Western Sahara is limited, with a few operational airports and ports primarily serving the region. The major seaports of Laayoune and Ad Dakhla are crucial for maritime access, while the airports facilitate some air travel.

6 airports reported in 2013
3 paved runways available as of 2019

Communications

The telecommunications system in Western Sahara is sparse and limited, largely integrated into Morocco's communication infrastructure. This affects both technological advancement and access to modern communication tools within the territory.

International country code: 212
Limited broadcasting services from both Moroccan state and Polisario-backed stations

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	652,271 (2020 est.)
Area	266,000 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$906.5 million (2007)
GDP per capita (PPP)	$2,500 (2007)
Urban population	86.8% (2020)
Median age	21.8 years
Population growth rate	2.54% (2020)
Electricity - installed capacity	58,000 kW (2016)
Airports	6 (2013)
Military personnel (MINURSO)	460 (Nov 2019)