Biden Administration Weighs Future of US Stance on Western Sahara

The US Constitution gives the US President virtually full powers in matters of foreign policy and state recognition. "Trump even has the exclusive right to recognize a state’s sovereignty over given territories. Congress cannot force him to contradict himself, but can nevertheless alter his decision," declares Shathil Nawaf Taqa, a jurist, to Jeune Afrique.

By virtue of the same powers, Joe Biden, the incoming President of the United States, could contradict this proclamation of recognition. "Logically, if he can recognize one thing, he can recognize its opposite," estimates the jurist specializing in comparative law. However, he believes it is unlikely that Trump’s successor will call it into question, since American history offers no precedent in this matter.

For now, the elected US President has not yet reacted to this recognition.