The Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) hosted the presentation of the book “Sahara Conflict: Reviewing the Legal Debate from an Integrated Perspective” by Japanese international law expert Shoji Matsumoto, on Friday in Rabat.
This book, published in English, offers a comprehensive and in-depth legal analysis of the Moroccan Sahara issue using an objective legal methodology. It combines traditional legal analysis with a review of the legal innovations that have occurred internationally over the past 50 years.
The integrated methodology highlighted in the book, supported by the author’s thorough analysis, presents the legal and political dimensions of the Moroccan Sahara conflict in a neutral manner.
The book consists of 12 chapters, addressing the legal foundations of the conflict, peremptory norms of international law, and a review of the political and legal impacts of the issue.
Through this work, author Matsumoto calls on decision-makers, academics, and legal experts to participate in discussions focused on the importance of international law in resolving conflicts. The researcher at PCNS highlights that Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara is based on solid legal foundations, supported by increasing international backing.
He pointed out that the Autonomy Plan initially proposed by Morocco in 2007 represents a practical solution that respects international standards, particularly with regard to “peremptory norms.”
In a statement to the press on the book launch presentation , Matsumoto confirmed that the autonomy proposal put forward by Morocco is the only realistic and credible solution to the conflict, praising Morocco’s comprehensive approach that ensures respect for human rights in accordance with international law.
Head of PCNS Karim El Aynaoui, affirmed that Shoji Matsumoto’s work is characterized by precision and seriousness, reflecting his deep knowledge.
Following the book presentation, a rich discussion followed on the key points addressed in the work, with prominent figures participating, including former Ambassador of the Kingdom to the United Nations, Mohamed Loulichki, and prominent researcher at the center, Nezha Chekrouni.
Shoji Matsumoto is a former professor of international law at Sapporo Gakuin University, a visiting researcher at the University of London, and manages several NGOs, including the Sapporo Institute for International Solidarity and the Japan Center for Moroccan Studies.