The issue of curtailed freedoms in Tunisia is of grave concern. Zied Dabbar, President of the National Journalist Syndicate, voiced these concerns in a conference on Saturday, stating, “We have become worryingly afraid for gains that we thought were irreversible. In one year, we have 41 journalists prosecuted by the judiciary. We have four journalists in prison.” Additionally, representatives from organizations including the Tunisian General Labour Union, the Human Rights League, and the Bar Association, asserted that Tunisians “will not accept the loss of freedom of speech and civil rights.”
The potential erosion of individual liberties in Tunisia poses a significant concern, given that human rights form the foundation of a desirable quality of life. President Saied must reconsider his approach and ensure that freedoms are safeguarded in Tunisia, or he may face growing protests and political instability. Political repression and judicial interference remain serious issues, as Tunisian authorities under Saied have increasingly targeted political opponents and critics through criminal investigations and arrests, with military courts being used to prosecute civilians. In response, organizations like the Tunisian Human Rights League are calling for a united front against these unprecedented assaults on freedom. Strengthening civil society organizations, such as the Human Rights League, is crucial in counterbalancing Saied’s power over personal freedoms so they can continue their advocacy efforts. Since taking office, President Saied has suspended the elected parliament, dissolved the Supreme Judicial Court, and shifted to ruling by decree. Reversing these measures by reestablishing an independent judiciary and reinstating dismissed judges based on vague allegations would be highly beneficial. Additionally, reinstating the parliament and restoring its authority to create legislation and provide checks and balances on the executive branch is critical.
Freedom of expression, a key achievement of the 2011 Tunisian revolution, is now under threat, with at least 39 individuals investigated or prosecuted for peacefully expressing their opinions. The Tunisian Revolution, or Jasmine Revolution of 2011, is central to Tunisia’s current struggle. This revolution, which marked the beginning of the Arab Spring, led to the ousting of long-time dictator Zine el Abidine Ben Ali and initiated Tunisia’s transition to democracy. Significant progress followed, marked by advances in human rights, freedom of expression, a more diverse political environment, the conduct of free and fair elections, and the establishment of a new constitution in 2014 that upheld democratic values and human rights. After the revolution, there were efforts to reinforce judicial independence and protect freedoms of speech, assembly, and association. However, by weakening checks and balances, President Saied has significantly consolidated power within the executive branch.
The situation in Tunisia underscores the delicate balance between the aspirations of the 2011 revolution and the challenges of building a stable democracy. Despite the progress achieved since the revolution, recent actions by President Saied and the erosion of civil liberties underscore the fragility of Tunisia’s democratic experiment. Concerns raised by Tunisian rights groups and international organizations highlight the urgent need for sustained efforts to protect fundamental rights and freedoms, restore democratic institutions, and uphold the rule of law
