Tunisia: Post-protest violence in Sejnane Dec. 12

Event

On Tuesday, December 12, two policemen were wounded in anti-police violence that broke out following a protest in Sejnane (north). Around 7000 people reportedly took part in the demonstration to denounce the alleged marginalization of the region by the government and to demand work. A general strike was also observed in the city on Tuesday, organized by the powerful UGTT labor union. Following the march, a smaller group of around 200 people attacked a police station with stones. Police forces consequently dispersed the crowd with tear gas and arrested five people.

Continued unrest is possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Outbreaks of violence previously occurred in Sejnane on December 8 following the death of a woman who set herself on fire in protest of the reduction of welfare benefits. According to the Interior Ministry, protesters set fire to the headquarters of a social assistance unit and damaged a government building. An unspecified number of police officers were also reportedly injured.

Unemployment and social inequalities persist in Tunisia despite advances towards democratization in the government following the Arab Spring in 2011

Advice

Individuals in Tunisia are advised to avoid all forms of public gatherings and demonstrations due to the risk of violence.