Tunisia: Protests and clashes likely to continue nationwide through at least late May /update 19

Event

Protests and associated clashes are likely across Tunisia through at least late May due to the political situation, high unemployment, rising inflation, and opposition parties' continued calls for demonstrations against the government. Thousands of protesters have periodically taken to the streets of Tunis and other major cities in response to deteriorating socioeconomic conditions and President Kais Saied's decision to rule by decree. On April 18, authorities arrested Rached Ghannouchi, president of the opposition party Ennahda, and closed all offices of the Salvation Front, the opposition coalition to which Ennahda belongs. This decision has been perceived as Saied's latest attempt to silence opposition, leading to widespread criticism of the Tunisian government's authoritarian tendencies.

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security 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 and associated clashes.

Context

The demonstrations and the prevailing sense of political uncertainty in Tunisia come at a time when the country's economy has been severely weakened by the COVID-19 pandemic and an increase in the prices of various goods, such as food and fuel. Tunisia's unemployment rate is around 16 percent and will likely rise over the coming months. Activists have staged protests in several cities to denounce the economic hardship and have occasionally burned tires, blocked roads, and engaged in acts of vandalism and looting. In response, Tunisian authorities have arrested hundreds of people and deployed the military to some cities on multiple occasions.

Meanwhile, President Kais Saied has bypassed democratic rule over the past year by ruling through decree, dissolving the Parliament, and dismissing the prime minister. In July 2022, through a referendum where only 30.5 percent of the population voted, Saied changed the constitution and created a presidential system, further strengthening his control. The new constitution has angered most opposition parties as it has reduced the power of the Parliament and many Tunisian institutions. Saied has also increased its crackdown on opposition leaders, journalists, and civil society activists.

Advice

Avoid all protests 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 and business disruptions near demonstration sites. Follow the instructions of security officials.