A Tunisian court has ordered the suspension of several prominent human rights organizations, escalating concerns over the erosion of civil liberties under President Kais Saied’s administration. The move, confirmed on 28 October 2025, is widely viewed as part of a broader crackdown on dissent and independent civic activity in the country.
Among the groups affected are the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), the Tunisian Association for Democratic Women (ATFD), and Mnemty, an anti-racism NGO. The court issued a one-month suspension of their activities, citing the need for financial audits and investigations into alleged foreign funding.
Romdhan Ben Amor, spokesperson for FTDES, condemned the decision, calling it an attempt to deflect attention from pressing national issues, including environmental protests in Gabes. He emphasized that the organization has consistently complied with transparency laws and continues to advocate for marginalized communities.
The suspensions come amid a broader pattern of repression. Since consolidating power in 2021, President Saied has overseen the dismantling of democratic institutions, the arrest of journalists and activists, and the curtailment of judicial independence. Civil society groups have increasingly faced legal and administrative pressure, with critics warning that Tunisia’s post–Arab Spring democratic gains are being reversed.
International watchdogs, including Human Rights Watch, have documented a sharp rise in politically motivated detentions and restrictions on freedom of expression. The latest court actions deepen fears that Tunisia is drifting toward authoritarianism, with civic space shrinking rapidly.
Affected organizations have pledged to appeal the suspensions and continue their work within legal bounds. However, the climate for human rights advocacy remains precarious, with growing calls for international scrutiny and diplomatic engagement to safeguard Tunisia’s democratic principles.
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