Parliamentary Diplomacy: A Sahrawi parliamentary delegation is in Switzerland this week, holding meetings in Locarno and Bern with Swiss political figures and the Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs to brief partners on the Sahrawi cause and ongoing human rights violations in occupied Western Sahara. Human Rights at the UN: At the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, NOVACT and ACAPS reaffirmed support for Sahrawi human rights defenders and warned that Morocco’s occupation depends on blocking international scrutiny; a newly released 2025 annual report says nearly 170 violations were documented, with the real toll likely higher due to bans on independent monitoring. Information Blockade & Drone Strikes: A Sahrawi representative at the same Geneva side event denounced an information blockade, illegal land grabs tied to “green” energy, and deadly drone strikes, including claims that Morocco has expelled hundreds of international observers since 2014. Tourism & Image Concerns: NOVACT/ACAPS also criticized how official propaganda helps preserve Morocco’s image as a “reliable” economic partner and tourist destination, arguing the annual reporting is key to pushing the truth into public view. Desert Life & Practical Travel Stories: In the Tindouf camps, a fish farming project is bringing fresh tilapia to thousands, reducing long trips for seafood and supporting nutrition in a harsh desert setting. Culture on the Move: A traveling “jaima” tent installation at the Oslo Freedom Forum is bringing Sahrawi nomadic life and identity to visitors through art and traditional textiles. Eclipse Travel Watch: A rare total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026 will be visible in parts of Europe and also includes a partial eclipse across Morocco and Western Sahara—an angle for travelers planning astronomy trips.