Tunisia: Soldiers disperse protesters in Tataouine May 22; one killed /update 2

Event

Tunisian soldiers prevented protesters from occupying the Vana gas pumping station in Tatouine province on Monday, May 22, by firing tear gas to disperse the crowd that was gathering outside the facility. Several casualties have been reported, including one young men who was accidentally killed after being hit by a police car. Demonstrators gathered in the capital Tunis on Habib Bourguiba Avenue following the death of the protester in solidarity with the protests in Tataouine. Further protests are expected.

A similar event occurred on Saturday, May 20, when Tunisian soldiers fired live ammunition into the air to disperse protesters gathered in front of the facility. On Sunday, May 21, the authorities warned that it would use force if necessary to protect oil and gas facilities.

Context

On May 10, President Beji Caid Essebsi deployed the military to protect the phosphate, gas, and oil production facilities from protesters in Tatouine province.

Around 1000 people have set up a protest camp outside of the oil pumping station. Unemployed youth have been holding protests in Tataouine province to demand the government take action to promote the creation of new jobs and economic development. Additional demonstrations have occurred throughout the country due to unemployment. The ongoing protests have caused oil and gas facilities to halt production. Tunisia has been dealing with a difficult socioeconomic situation since 2011, when massive “Arab Spring” demonstrations rocked the region and led to changes in the political organization of the country. The current government struggles to address economic hardships faced by the population, youths in particular.

Advice

Individuals in Tunisia are advised to avoid demonstrations due to the potential for violence, to follow any instructions issued by local authorities, and to allow for extra time to reach their destinations.