The Human Rights Forum of Amnesty International Tunisia has issued a call to action, urging the protection of public freedoms and an end to fear-mongering in the country. The forum, which took place under the theme "Facing Authoritarianism and Anti-Rights Movements: Upholding Freedoms and Uniting Our Struggles," brought together participants who expressed concerns over the current state of affairs in Tunisia. They highlighted the rise of far-right forces and a fascist backlash targeting freedoms and pluralism.
According to the forum, the events unfolding in Tunisia since July 25, 2021, are not isolated incidents but rather a deliberate attempt to reconsolidate power, dismantle accountability guarantees, and undermine the judiciary. The participants rejected the normalization of this trajectory, which they believe is being presented as a political or security necessity. They also expressed solidarity with those being persecuted for their opinions, work, or solidarity, including opponents, lawyers, judges, journalists, and human rights defenders.
The forum strongly criticized the use of Decree 54 and the Communications Code to prosecute individuals for their opinions, as well as the manipulation of terrorism-related charges and the exploitation of the 2015 Anti-Terrorism Law. These actions, they argued, restrict public space, erode guarantees of a fair trial, and transform political disputes from a realm of pluralism and accountability to one of suspicion. The participants also denounced the targeting of civil society organizations, associations, and movements through administrative and judicial pressures, smear campaigns, and attempts to discredit them.
The forum expressed particular concern over the persistent violence against women, the increasing number of femicides, and the targeting of LGBTQ+ individuals. They rejected hate crimes and campaigns against equality, which they saw as attempts to reassert control over bodies, desires, and social roles. The participants emphasized the importance of upholding individual freedoms and equality, rejecting any guardianship or restriction on these values.
The forum also addressed the issue of migration, condemning racist and xenophobic discourse and practices. They held authorities responsible for halting violence, discrimination, and collective expulsions, and for ensuring legal protection for migrants. The participants reiterated their commitment to solidarity with migrants and refugees, viewing it as a humanitarian and human rights imperative.
Furthermore, the forum expressed support for protesters and social movements demanding better working conditions, access to basic services, and social justice. They rejected the suppression of social demands and the prosecution of those who expose inequalities and advocate for their rights. The participants also voiced their solidarity with families of detainees, acknowledging the broader impact of persecution on families and communities.
Ultimately, the Human Rights Forum of Amnesty International Tunisia called for a united front against authoritarianism, emphasizing the interconnectedness of struggles for freedom, equality, and social justice. They urged Tunisians to come together in defense of human rights and freedoms, rejecting selective solidarity and advocating for a sustained and collective response to the erosion of public freedoms and the rise of authoritarianism.
Key points
- The Tunisian human rights forum demands an end to fear-mongering and the protection of public freedoms.
- The forum rejects the normalization of the current authoritarian trajectory in Tunisia.
- Participants express solidarity with those persecuted for their opinions, work, or solidarity.
