Tunisia: Oil pumping station in Tataouine governorate closed by protesters on July 16

Event

Regional media sources have reported that protesters have shut an oil pumping station located in Kamour (Tataouine governate) on Thursday, July 16. A large contingent of forces had allegedly been deployed to the site to protect the petroleum installations, including a helicopter, but there was no reported violence between security personnel and protesters. Oil production at the facility is reported to be completely suspended. Protesters are calling on the government to implement a 2017 deal to create jobs in oil companies and infrastructure projects to reduce unemployment in the region.

Demonstrations are likely to continue in the near term; associated disruptions and a heightened security presence should also be anticipated.

Context

Demonstrations have been taking place in the region since late May over an unfulfilled government promise to implement the 2017 El Kamour Agreement by creating 1,500 jobs in the energy industry. On June 30, the government approved the creation of 500 jobs in the sector. However, protest groups have demanded that the government fully honor the original quota and allocate 80 million dinars (32 million USD) in development funding for the governorate. Protests have escalated in recent weeks following the arrest of Tariq Haddad, the spokesman for the movement, on June 20.

Advice

Those in Tataouine governorate are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate travel disruption during the strike, and avoid any associated demonstrations and political gatherings.