Tunisia: Nationwide protests and clashes likely to continue through late December /update 2

Event

Protests and associated clashes are likely across Tunisia through at least late December due to the continued lack of a parliament and rising unemployment stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of protesters have periodically taken to the streets of Tunis and other major cities demanding President Kais Saied's resignation following his decision to rule by decree and indefinitely suspending Tunisia's Parliament. Critics maintain that Saied wants to monopolize power and have accused him of staging a coup.

The 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 percent and will likely rise due to the pandemic's detrimental economic impact. Protesters in several cities have occasionally burned tires, blocked roads, and engaged in acts of vandalism and looting, which has led to the arrests of hundreds of people. In response, the Tunisian government has frequently deployed the military to some cities.

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.