Five Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) convened a press conference on July 12th to denounce the infringement upon freedom of expression in Tunisia and the detention of political opponents. These MEPs are urging the European Union to take stronger action in response to these concerns.
The five MEPs emphasized that the continued repression of freedoms and political opponents in Tunisia contradicts the values upheld by the European Union. They expressed their disappointment with the European Commission and the Council for their sluggish response and lack of decisive measures.
As a significant trade partner, the European Union has established economic partnership agreements with Tunisia, including substantial aid amounting to 900 million euros. Notably, this aid encompasses a 100-million-euro package dedicated to managing irregular migration flows originating from Tunisia. During her visit to Tunis on June 11th, the President of the European Commission, Ursula Von der Leyen, announced these initiatives.
The Plight of Detained Opponents
The MEPs highlighted the European Union’s apparent preoccupation with securing migratory cooperation, which they perceive as overshadowing the deteriorating state of freedoms in Tunisia. More than thirty political opponents remain in detention, with their families expressing concerns over prolonged incarceration without a set trial date and allegations of mistreatment in detention facilities. As an act of protest, families of political opponents plan to hold a sit-in in front of the Tunis Appeals Chamber on Thursday, July 13th.