Algeria faces significant challenges due to irregular immigration from Tunisia, exacerbated by stricter regulations. Recent meetings between Algerian and Tunisian officials focused on migration and border security while highlighting economic impacts. Concerns about rising crime in border regions have emerged, sparking calls for military intervention. Human rights responses criticize such measures and the overall approach to migration. Europe pressures Tunisia to manage migration flows without providing financial assistance, complicating the situation.
Algeria is currently grappling with significant challenges stemming from the substantial flow of irregular immigrants from Tunisia. This longstanding migration crisis has seen thousands of both Algerian and African nationals crossing into Tunisia. Recent stricter regulations enforced by Algeria on accepting migrants have exacerbated the situation, leading to a critical border dilemma.
Despite existing cooperation between Algeria and Tunisia on migration and security matters, Tunisia has expressed dissatisfaction, claiming Algeria has not adequately addressed the influx of migrants. In light of this, Tunisian President Kais Saied dispatched Interior Minister Khaled Nouri to engage in discussions with his Algerian counterpart, Ibrahim Mourad, to address issues including smuggling and border security, emphasizing the economic impacts on both nations.
The dialogue underscored the necessity for enhanced collaboration to effectively tackle the surge in irregular immigration. Following the discussions, Minister Nouri participated in a reception with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, reiterating the importance of concerted efforts on these pressing matters.
Political analyst Nabil Rahbi articulated the need for Algeria to fulfill its obligations in controlling migrant flows, indicating that it appears to be evading its responsibilities recently. The border area of Sfax, particularly the districts of Jebiniana and El Amra, has witnessed an alarming rise in crime such as assaults, prompting Tunisian lawmakers Tariq Al-Mahdi and Fatima Al-Mahdi to advocate for military intervention to restore order.
While some legislators demand military measures, numerous human rights organizations have decried such proposals and criticized the inadequate protection afforded to individuals under the government’s migration strategy. Tariq Al-Mahdi noted the prevalence of criminal gangs engaging in violent home invasions in these vulnerable shelters.
Furthermore, Europe continues to exert pressure on Tunisia to restrain irregular immigration towards its coasts, doing so without extending financial assistance, thus placing Tunisia in a position as a bottleneck for migrants. The issue of migration has been persistent; as of May 2024, Hossam Eddine Jebabli, spokesperson for the Tunisian National Guard, reported that over 19,000 illegal immigrants had crossed into Tunisia in the first four months, with more than 70% of these entries occurring via the Algerian border.
The migration issue between Algeria and Tunisia represents a complex challenge requiring strengthened collaboration and effective strategies to manage irregular flows of migrants. While Tunisia has raised concerns regarding Algeria’s contributions to controlling migration, there is a pressing need to address rising crime rates in border regions. Additionally, the role of European pressure without financial aid complicates the situation further, underscoring the urgency for coordinated regional responses.
Original Source: www.atalayar.com
