Tunisia's activists decry civil society crackdown
Five years into Tunisian President Kais Saied’s increasingly authoritarian rule, rights groups warn that the country’s once vibrant civil society is being silenced.
Tunisian civil society groups are expressing alarm over a government crackdown on non-profit organizations. Messaoud Romdhani, a human rights activist, told DW that many face accusations of money laundering, leading to suspension of their activities. Another activist, speaking anonymously, noted people are increasingly hesitant to speak out or work on sensitive issues, fearing the "chilling effect."
Human Rights Watch warns that President Kais Saied's administration is attempting to eliminate Tunisia's civil society altogether, citing abusive prosecutions, detentions, financial investigations, and organization suspensions. The watchdog states that civil society has played a crucial role in holding power accountable and advocating for human rights.
Saied, elected in 2019, dissolved parliament in 2021, dismantling democratic institutions and repressing political dissent. Despite accusations of authoritarianism, Saied argues his actions are necessary to combat corruption and safeguard democracy. The government's actions have sparked protests, with thousands taking to the streets in July to demand Saied's resignation.
However, a generational divide emerges in Tunisia, with younger, better-educated individuals expressing more pessimism about the country's economic and political future compared to older generations.
Written by urgent.news from DW English (Top Stories)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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