Tunisia Sees Rise in Attacks on Journalists in 2026

The National Union of Tunisian Journalists has reported a rise in attacks on journalists in Tunisia, with 154 incidents recorded between September 1, 2025, and August 2026. This represents an increase from 149 attacks in the previous year. The union's president, Ziad Dbar, made the announcement at a conference in the capital city, marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists.

According to Dbar, official parties were responsible for 95 of the attacks on journalists. He warned that the situation for journalists in Tunisia is becoming increasingly difficult, with many facing threats and intimidation. Dbar emphasized that attacks on journalists are, in essence, attacks on the public's right to professional and ethical journalism.

The conference, attended by various stakeholders in the media and legal sectors, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Tunisia. Roouda Al-Haj, representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Tunisia, stressed that a free and independent press is essential for public debate and accountability. She noted that journalists in Tunisia still face significant obstacles in performing their duties safely and independently.

Al-Haj also mentioned that the UN Human Rights Committee has expressed concerns about certain Tunisian laws and recommended revising them to better protect freedom of expression. Meanwhile, Naji Al-Bagouri, coordinator of UNESCO's communication and information programs in Tunisia, emphasized that restricting journalists' work is a form of censorship that prevents citizens from participating in public affairs.

Al-Bagouri cited UNESCO reports showing a rise in arbitrary detention of journalists regionally and globally. He also noted that online threats against journalists are becoming increasingly common, with over 73% of female journalists experiencing online harassment, and 20% of these incidents translating into real-life attacks.

UNESCO statistics reveal that only one in ten cases of attacks on journalists results in accountability. Al-Bagouri called for the Tunisian government to take responsibility for protecting journalists and reducing violations. The conference also discussed ways to promote accountability and end impunity for crimes against journalists.

The National Union of Tunisian Journalists and other stakeholders are pushing for greater protection and support for journalists in Tunisia. The goal is to create a safer and more enabling environment for journalists to perform their duties without fear of reprisal or intimidation. This effort aims to promote a culture of accountability and respect for human rights in Tunisia.

Key points

• 154 attacks on journalists reported in Tunisia in 2026
• Official parties responsible for 95 attacks on journalists
• UNESCO reports rise in arbitrary detention of journalists globally