Tunisia: Nationwide protests and clashes likely to continue through at least late October

Event

Protests and associated clashes are likely across Tunisia through at least late October due to the continued lack of a government and rising unemployment stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Tunis Sept. 26 and demanded President Kais Saied's resignation following his decision to rule by decree. Saied announced Sept. 22 that he would indefinitely suspend the country's Parliament and deprive lawmakers of immunity from prosecution, among several other changes. Critics maintain that Saied wants to monopolize power and have accused him of staging a coup.

The likelihood of demonstrations and the sense of political uncertainty in Tunisia come at a time when the country's economy has been severely weakened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Tunisia's unemployment rate is nearly 18 and will likely rise due to the detrimental economic impact of the pandemic. Protesters in several cities have occasionally burned tires, blocked roads, and engaged in acts of vandalism and looting, which have led to the arrests of hundreds of people. In response, the Tunisian government has deployed the military to some cities to protect vital government agencies and institutions.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture over the coming days and weeks. Security personnel could deploy to additional locations as new demonstrations materialize. Protests may impact major road routes, including access points to ports of entry and exit. Transport and business disruptions are probable near any future demonstrations. Additional clashes between security forces and protesters are likely, especially if protest participants are overly disruptive or fail to heed orders to disperse.

Authorities could impose nightly security-related curfews and deploy additional security forces if violence escalates in the coming days.

Advice

Avoid all protest actions due to the potential for violence. Exercise caution near likely rally locations. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstration sites. Follow the instructions of security officials.