Tunisia Roundup: Detained French student, unemployment rates, TikToker jailed
French PhD student detained in Tunisia
A French PhD student, Vincent Dupont, researching the career paths of 2011 Tunisian protesters, has been detained in Tunisia since October 19. His supervisor, Vincent Geisser, described the detention as "exceptional" for a French student and emphasised that Dupont's research is not politically sensitive. French diplomatic services are involved in the case, with Dupont's family in Tunisia for support. This incident occurs amid concerns over President Kais Saied's re-election and a crackdown on dissent in Tunisia.
Tunisia to send 3 elephants to India for better care
Three African forest elephants, Achtaum, Kani, and Mina, aged 28 to 29, will soon be relocated to Vantara, a wildlife rescue centre in Jamnagar, India. They are coming from a private zoo in Tunisia that struggled to meet their dietary and veterinary needs due to financial issues. After nearly 23 years in captivity, the zoo sought a compassionate facility for their retirement, leading to Vantara's acceptance. The elephants face several health challenges requiring medical attention, and their current living conditions are inadequate. At Vantara, they will receive specialised care in an enriched environment designed to resemble their natural habitat, offering them a chance for a fulfilling life.
Tunisia ranks high in unemployment rates globally
The United Nations' 'World Social Report 2024' highlights a rise in unemployment rates globally between 2018 and 2023, with Tunisia ranking tenth among 22 countries experiencing at least a one percentage point increase, rising 2.3 points. Factors contributing to this trend include the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts like the war in Ukraine, and climate change, which have disrupted economies and supply chains. Additionally, the report notes a significant increase in food insecurity, with Tunisia having a rate between 20% and 30%, alongside countries like Ecuador and Mexico.
Family denied access to jailed Tunisian opposition leader since hunger strike
Family members of Tunisian opposition leader Said Ferjani have been denied access to him after he began a hunger strike in jail, protesting poor conditions and lack of healthcare. Ferjani, a leader of the Ennahda party, was arrested in February 2023 on various charges, including money laundering and undermining state security. His daughter reported that neither the family nor his lawyer has been able to get updates on his health, and doctors have refused to provide medical information. Ferjani's arrest is part of a broader crackdown on opposition figures following President Kais Saied's consolidation of power in 2021.
Tunisian TikToker jailed 4 years for "obscene content"
A Tunisian court has sentenced a social media influencer to four and a half years in prison for sharing "obscene content," marking the first enforcement of a new law targeting TikTok and Instagram influencers. The influencer, along with four others arrested, faces charges related to "harassment" and "immoral behaviour." This crackdown follows Tunisian Justice Minister Leila Jaffel's directive to prosecute individuals who use social media to spread content that conflicts with public morals, igniting a debate about morality and freedom of speech in the country. Critics view the law as a means to suppress dissent against President Kais Saied, who has faced local and international backlash for consolidating power and undermining democracy. Concerns have been raised about the law's vague language regarding "moral and social values," leading to calls for clarity. The law reflects a broader trend, as several countries have taken action against TikTok over moral concerns.
