The Urgent Role of the UN Human Rights Council in Addressing Tunisia’s Escalating Human Rights Crisis

The UN Human Rights Council Should Address the Rapidly Growing Human Rights Crisis in Tunisia

June 27, 2023

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As the 53rd session of the UN Human Rights Council is underway, four human rights organizations have called for urgent action to address the deteriorating human rights situation in Tunisia. In a letter sent to UN Member States’ Representatives on June 5, these organizations expressed concern over the worsening conditions in Tunisia and urged states to seize the opportunity of the ongoing session to address the crisis.

A Call for Compliance with International Human Rights Law

The organizations emphasized the importance of Tunisia complying with its obligations under international human rights law. They specifically highlighted the need for the Tunisian authorities to uphold the rights to fair trial, freedom of expression, freedom of peaceful assembly and association, and non-discrimination.

The Human Rights Council should, according to the organizations, urge Tunisia to put an end to the ongoing crackdown on peaceful dissent and freedom of expression. They also called for the dropping of charges against individuals who are being detained and prosecuted solely for their peaceful political activities and the exercise of their human rights.

Ending Anti-Black Violence and Ensuring Accountability

A significant concern raised by the organizations is the wave of anti-Black violence in Tunisia. They called on Tunisia to conduct a prompt, thorough, independent, impartial, and transparent investigation into these acts of violence against Black African foreign nationals, including migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees. The organizations also stressed the importance of bringing to justice those reasonably suspected to be responsible for these acts and providing victims with access to justice and effective remedies.

The Rollback on Human Rights in Tunisia

Over the past two years, Tunisia has witnessed a significant rollback on human rights. The organizations highlighted the dismantling of judicial independence guarantees, as well as the arbitrary dismissal of individual judges and prosecutors. They also raised concerns about increased interference by the executive in the judiciary and the prosecution of lawyers for the exercise of their professional duties and right to freedom of expression.

The International Commission of Jurists’ MENA director, Said Benarbia, remarked that the interference in the judiciary and attacks on lawyers have greatly undermined the right to a fair trial and public trust in the integrity of the justice system. Benarbia stressed the importance of ensuring that the courts are not weaponized to suppress dissent and free expression.

Restricting Media Freedoms and Criminalizing Journalism

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, recently called on the Tunisian authorities to stop restricting media freedoms and criminalizing independent journalism. Türk expressed deep concern over the increasing restrictions on the right to freedom of expression and press freedom in Tunisia, noting that vague legislation is being used to criminalize independent journalism and stifle criticism of the authorities.

The Targeting of Political Dissidents and Opposition Figures

Since February 2023, Tunisia has experienced a wave of arrests targeting political opponents and perceived critics of President Kais Saied. Judges are investigating at least 48 people, including dissidents, opposition figures, and lawyers, for allegedly conspiring against the state or threatening state security. These individuals are facing charges under Tunisia‘s counter-terrorism law, despite a lack of credible evidence.

Salsabil Chellali, Tunisia director at Human Rights Watch, stated that by imprisoning political leaders and banning opposition meetings, the Tunisian authorities are trampling on the fundamental rights that underpin a vibrant democracy. Chellali emphasized that the democratic backsliding and human rights violations in Tunisia require urgent attention from the Human Rights Council and its member states.

Editorial: Upholding Human Rights in Tunisia

It is deeply troubling to witness the rapid deterioration of human rights in Tunisia, a country that once held so much promise after the 2011 revolution. The rollbacks on judicial independence, the crackdown on peaceful dissent, and the targeting of political opponents are indicative of a dangerous regression.

The Tunisian authorities must be held accountable for their actions and encouraged to fulfill their obligations under international human rights law. The Human Rights Council, as the principal intergovernmental body responsible for promoting and protecting human rights, has a crucial role to play in addressing this crisis in Tunisia.

Tunisia, as a member of the Human Rights Council, should lead by example and demonstrate its commitment to upholding human rights. It is imperative that Tunisia takes immediate action to end the crackdown on peaceful dissent, release individuals detained solely for the exercise of their human rights, and ensure the impartial and independent functioning of the judiciary.

The international community must also step up its efforts to support Tunisia in this critical time. Member states of the Human Rights Council should use the ongoing session to prioritize the situation in Tunisia and exert diplomatic pressure on the Tunisian authorities to address the human rights crisis. The UN should consider appointing a special rapporteur or commission of inquiry to investigate the human rights violations in Tunisia and recommend appropriate measures for accountability.

Moreover, economic assistance should be linked to Tunisia‘s human rights record. International partners and donors should condition financial support on meaningful reforms and improvements in the human rights situation. This approach can help incentivize the Tunisian authorities to take concrete actions to address the crisis.

The civil society in Tunisia also plays a crucial role in advocating for human rights and democracy. They deserve support and solidarity from the international community. By amplifying their voices and providing resources, the international community can bolster the efforts of human rights defenders and ensure their safety and protection.

The situation in Tunisia should serve as a reminder to the international community of the fragility of human rights gains. It is our collective responsibility to uphold and defend the principles of human rights, both at home and abroad. Failure to address the human rights crisis in Tunisia could have far-reaching consequences, not only for the Tunisian people but also for the broader region.

Advice: Taking Action on the Human Rights Crisis in Tunisia

Individuals:

• Educate yourself about the human rights situation in Tunisia through reliable sources and stay informed about the latest developments.
• Support human rights organizations working in Tunisia through donations and volunteering.
• Use social media and other platforms to raise awareness about the human rights crisis in Tunisia and advocate for action from your government.
• Join campaigns and petitions calling for accountability and respect for human rights in Tunisia.

Governments:

• Use your influence as a member of the UN Human Rights Council to prioritize the situation in Tunisia and advocate for action.
• Engage diplomatically with the Tunisian authorities, expressing concern about the human rights crisis and urging them to take immediate action.
• Consider imposing targeted sanctions on individuals responsible for human rights violations in Tunisia.
• Condition financial assistance and trade agreements on meaningful human rights reforms in Tunisia.

International Organizations:

• Appoint a special rapporteur or establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the human rights situation in Tunisia and recommend appropriate measures for accountability.
• Provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to Tunisia to strengthen its human rights institutions and ensure compliance with international standards.
• Monitor and report on the human rights situation in Tunisia, highlighting any violations and pressuring the Tunisian authorities to take action.
• Collaborate with civil society organizations and human rights defenders in Tunisia to amplify their voices and provide resources and protection.

The human rights crisis in Tunisia demands immediate attention and concerted action from the international community. By taking a principled and unified stance, we can support the people of Tunisia in their struggle for human rights, justice, and democracy.

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