Spanish Congress approves nationality for Saharawis born before 1977

The Spanish Congress of Deputies has approved a bill to grant Spanish nationality to individuals born in the former Spanish province of Western Sahara before September 29, 1977. The legislation, which passed with 168 votes in favor, 31 against, and 145 abstentions, also extends this right to their first-degree descendants.

Designed as a remedy for historical injustice following the decolonization process, the law allows eligible Saharawis to apply for nationality via 'carta de naturaleza' without requiring legal residency in Spain. Applicants can use documents such as expired Spanish DNI, birth certificates, or UN census registration for the self-determination referendum. An estimated 70,000 to 100,000 people may benefit from this measure.

The initiative was championed by Tesh Sidi, a deputy from Más Madrid born in the Tindouf refugee camps. The bill received support from the PSOE and Sumar, while Vox voted against it and the PP abstained. The measure must now proceed to the Senate for final approval.