CIVICUS discusses growing authoritarianism in Tunisia with a representative of the Africa Independent Commission of Human Rights.

On 22 November, Tunisians took to the streets to protest against President Kais Saied’s increasingly autocratic rule. Since Saied suspended parliament and rewrote the constitution to concentrate power in his hands in 2021, dozens of activists, journalists, lawyers and opposition figures have been detained. Civil society continues to demand the release of political prisoners, restoration of civil and political freedoms and an end to criminalisation of dissent.

Why are people protesting in Tunisia?

In late November, over a thousand people took to the streets across Tunisia to protest against repression and the erosion of democracy, including through arbitrary arrests, criminalisation and suspension of civil society organisations (CSOs). Human rights defenders, lawyers and others marched together, dressed in black as a sign of mourning and resistance, to send a clear message to the government: ‘enough is enough’.

Tunisia was once seen as a regional example when it came to freedoms of assembly and expression, open debate and strong protections for migrants, women and others from excluded groups. But under Saied’s increasingly authoritarian rule, this progress is being dismantled and the situation has become extremely serious.

A stark example is the case of Saber Ben Chouchane, who received a death sentence for criticising Saied on Facebook. Saber was found guilty of attempting to change the form of government, insulting the president and spreading false information. Six days later, following national and international condemnation, Saied pardoned him and ordered his release. His case shows just how far repression has gone and raises serious concerns about judicial independence. When courts issue such rulings and the executive steps in directly, it becomes clear that judicial institutions no longer act independently but under political control. This violates Tunisia’s constitution and its obligations under international human rights law.

What’s the state of civil space in Tunisia?

Civic space in Tunisia has become extremely restricted. Saber’s case isn’t an exception but part of a wider authoritarian turn that has been taking shape over the past three to four years under which human rights defenders, journalists, judges and lawyers are being systematically targeted.

Tunisia, a country that once hosted major regional human rights events and served as a hub for civil society, no longer allows that level of freedom. The government has dismantled the institutions that protected accountability and pluralism and, instead of engaging with civil society, has deepened repression through intimidation, pressure and surveillance.

Authorities have closed off nearly every avenue for independent civil society and journalism. It has become extremely difficult to organise events, public meetings or even small community activities. Many CSOs are facing asset freezes, lawsuits, legal harassment and suspensions – tactics used by the government to intimidate and silence them. Journalists are monitored, prosecuted and detained, judges who speak out are punished and lawyers are harassed.

How is civil society resisting?

Despite the severe restrictions, Tunisian civil society hasn’t been silenced. It remains active and continues to show that sustained pressure can still make a difference. Inside Tunisia, groups such as the Tunisian League for Human Rights, feminist organisations, lawyers’ collectives and youth groups keep mobilising against the growing crackdown on freedoms.

Advocacy also continues at regional and international levels as many Tunisian human rights defenders and lawyers are now in exile but stay deeply engaged. Through the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the United Nations Human Rights Council, activists, CSOs, judges and lawyers issue statements, organise events and submit urgent appeals calling on the government to end the repression, reopen civic space and restore basic freedoms.

What can the international community do?

The government’s violent response to recent protests directly contradicts Tunisia’s obligations under international law. As a country that has ratified multiple human rights treaties, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Tunisia must uphold these standards. That includes respecting the work of CSOs, journalists, judges and lawyers, and allowing people to protest peacefully.

The International community should help ensure Tunisia is held accountable for violations of its commitments by monitoring the situation closely and raising concerns through human rights mechanisms. But this external support can’t replace internal democratic struggle. While international pressure is important, lasting change must come from within Tunisian society. Civil society will need to keep mobilising peacefully, building coalitions and defending rights through lawful and non-violent means, much as it did before 2011. These internal efforts are essential for any meaningful political shift to happen.

Repression will not bring stability. History shows that authoritarian systems eventually collapse, and Tunisia still has time to change course. Releasing detained journalists, judges and lawyers and restoring basic freedoms would be an important first step. Tunisian civil society is experienced, mature and resilient. If authorities reopen civic space, civil society can once again play a central role in protecting and advancing human rights.