What Contribution can Colombia Offer Towards Peace and Respect for International Law in the Western Sahara?

This paper argues that the recognition of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) constitutes a contribution to respecting International Law and peace among peoples. We start from the idea that given that Public International Law is an "imperfect" law due to its lack of a centralized executive power, its enforcement depends in large measure on the responsibility of member states of the international community. Then, this study considers both the legal status of the Western Sahara - a conflict where the right to self-determination and independence is clearly defined-and the circumstances surrounding the foundation of the SADR and its legitimacy. Because of the inaction of the central bodies of the international community that do not want, or cannot, enforce this right, it is - necessary to highlight the responsibility of the member states of the international community to fulfil this task. That is the particular case of Colombia and the American states, which have ratified the Montevideo Convention where this responsibility is clearly shown. The actions of every State to fulfil International Law are a contribution to its respect and to the pacific resolution of controversies, so that the recognition of the SADR is a contribution to law and peace.