Nine national organizations and civil society groups in Tunisia have called for a large-scale popular march in Tunis on October 17, 2026. The announcement was made on September 29, 2026, during a meeting at the headquarters of the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT). The organizations aim to denounce the country's critical economic, social, and political situation. The meeting was attended by representatives from various national organizations.
The signatory organizations include the UGTT, the National Union of Tunisian Journalists (SNJT), the National Order of Lawyers of Tunisia (ONAT), the Tunisian League for the Defense of Human Rights (LTDH), the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), the General Union of Tunisian Students (UGET), the Tunisian Organization of Young Doctors (OTJM), the Tunisian Association of Democratic Women (ATFD), and the Union of Unemployed Graduates (UDC).
The organizations have expressed concerns about the deterioration of the country's overall situation, particularly with regards to the decline in purchasing power, unemployment, precariousness, and the decline of public services. They also raised concerns about public and individual freedoms, calling for the respect of freedom of expression, press, association, and peaceful demonstration.
The march, which will take place under the slogan "Tunisia first... the people above all considerations," aims to bring attention to the critical situation in the country. The organizations are united in their call for action, emphasizing the need for change and reform. The situation in Tunisia has been deteriorating over time, with rising unemployment and declining living standards.
The UGTT has been actively involved in the preparations for the march, with the organization's leadership emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action. The march is seen as a crucial step towards bringing about change and pushing for reforms. Other organizations, including the SNJT and LTDH, have also expressed their support for the march.
The Tunisian government has faced criticism for its handling of the economy and its response to social and political issues. The UGTT and other organizations have been vocal in their criticism, calling for greater transparency and accountability. The march on October 17 is expected to draw large crowds and attention from both domestic and international observers.
The outcome of the march and the impact on the Tunisian government remain to be seen. However, the fact that nine major organizations have come together to call for action suggests a growing sense of urgency and frustration among Tunisians. The situation in Tunisia continues to unfold, with many watching to see how the government will respond to the growing demands for change.
Key points
- Nine Tunisian organizations have called for a nationwide protest in Tunis on October 17 to denounce the country's economic, social, and political situation.
