Families of detained Tunisian activists have appealed for their release, arguing they engaged in humanitarian efforts. Activist Romdhane Ben Amor highlighted criminalization of their work amid a crackdown on migrants. President Saied’s remarks against sub-Saharan migrants triggered tensions. Concerns were raised over the health of detainees and the silence of global organizations.
Families in Tunisia are advocating for the release of detained activists involved in pro-migrant and anti-racism efforts, who have been imprisoned since May. Romdhane Ben Amor, head of the FTDES NGO, stated that these activists were engaged in humanitarian work, not political activities, but their efforts have been criminalized by the authorities.
Ben Amor expressed concerns that the actions of the government aim to undermine migrants and refugees, pushing them towards ‘voluntary returns’ facilitated by the UN’s International Organization for Migration. Tunisia is recognized as a significant transit point for African migrants seeking better economic opportunities in Europe.
In 2023, President Kais Saied made controversial statements, labeling sub-Saharan migrants as a demographic threat, prompting increased crackdowns and the arrest of several activists. During a press conference, Emna Riahi, mother of detained Sherifa Riahi, who was previously charged with money laundering and terrorism, called for her daughter’s release.
The conference also featured daughters of Mustapha Djemali, 80, who founded the Tunisian Council for Refugees. They shared alarming news of their father’s health decline in prison, claiming he lost approximately 35 kilograms and was denied necessary medication for months. Ben Amor criticized these detentions as an attempt to legitimize the president’s discriminatory narrative while highlighting the silence of the European Union and other international bodies.
The families of detained activists are imploring for their release amidst a backdrop of escalating anti-migrant sentiment in Tunisia. With the government’s crackdown on humanitarian efforts, the calls for justice emphasize the humanitarian nature of their work. This situation reflects broader narratives regarding migration in the region and the responses from international organizations.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
