Families of detained pro-migrant activists in Tunisia have called for their release, emphasizing that the activists were engaged in humanitarian work. The Tunisian government has been criticized for criminalizing their actions under President Kais Saied’s anti-migrant agenda. Activists’ health and well-being in prison also raise serious concerns.
The families of ten pro-migrant activists incarcerated in Tunisia since May have publicly appealed for their immediate release. They convened at a press conference where Romdhane Ben Amor, the head of the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), emphasized that the activists had participated in humanitarian efforts rather than political dissent.
Mr. Ben Amor expressed concerns that the Tunisian government is criminalizing the humanitarian efforts of these activists, alleging that the authorities aim to compel migrants and refugees into “voluntary returns” under the auspices of the UN’s International Organisation for Migration. Tunisia serves as a crucial transit point for many African migrants who seek to cross the Mediterranean into Europe.
The situation escalated in 2023 when President Kais Saied criticized what he termed “hordes of sub-Saharan migrants,” claiming they posed a demographic threat. His inflammatory rhetoric has led to a crackdown on migrant activists, resulting in these arrests.
Among the advocates calling for the release of detained activists was Emna Riahi, whose daughter, Sherifa Riahi, was imprisoned although related charges of money laundering and terrorism had been dropped. Concerns were also raised regarding Mustapha Djemali, an 80-year-old refugee rights advocate who has reportedly lost 35 kilograms (approximately 77 pounds) while incarcerated and has not received medication for several months.
Ben Amor further condemned the arrests as politically motivated, arguing that they aim to support the president’s anti-migrant stance. He criticized the European Union and other international organizations for their “complicit silence” regarding these human rights violations.
The appeal for the release of pro-migrant activists in Tunisia highlights significant concerns regarding human rights and humanitarian work in the country. The activists, engaged in humanitarian efforts, face criminalization amid the government’s anti-migrant policy. The support from their families underscores the urgent need for international attention and action regarding the treatment of migrants and activists in Tunisia.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
