Tunisia Issues Diplomatic Protest to EU Over Ambassador's Union Meeting
Tunisia's President Kais Saied has issued a stern diplomatic protest by summoning the European Union ambassador, Giuseppe Perrone, following a meeting between the envoy and the head of a prominent Tunisian union. This incident underscores escalating tensions between Saied's administration and the nation's robust civil society organizations, particularly as the government intensifies its efforts to control independent groups.
The Diplomatic Spat and Its Context
The diplomatic spat arose after Ambassador Perrone's Monday meeting with Noureddine Taboubi, leader of the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT). During their discussion, Perrone reportedly lauded the UGTT's pivotal role in achieving the 2015 Nobel Peace Prize for its contributions to the country's democratic transition. He also reaffirmed the EU's commitment to ongoing collaboration with Tunisia's civil society. However, the Tunisian presidency viewed this interaction as a significant deviation from established diplomatic protocols and an inappropriate engagement outside official channels, stating a "strongly worded protest" was conveyed.
Wider Crackdown on Civil Society
This latest friction point is set against a backdrop of a widening government crackdown on various civil society entities in Tunisia. Numerous groups, including Democratic Women, Nawaat Journalists, and the Economic and Social Forum, have faced suspension. Rights watchdog Amnesty International has raised alarms, describing the repression of rights organizations as critical, citing arbitrary arrests, detentions, asset freezes, and banking restrictions targeting at least 14 non-governmental organizations.
UGTT's Stance Amidst Crisis
The UGTT, boasting a formidable one million members, has so far managed to avoid direct official sanctions. Nevertheless, the influential union has voiced grave concerns over perceived infringements on trade union rights and the unilateral termination of agreements by authorities. Furthermore, the UGTT recently threatened a nationwide strike to "defend trade union rights," a move that could severely exacerbate Tunisia's already dire economic and political crisis. This crisis has already triggered widespread protests involving opposition factions, unions, journalists, banks, and medical professionals.
Souring EU-Tunisia Relations
Relations between the EU, Tunisia's primary trade partner and a long-standing ally, have deteriorated markedly since President Saied consolidated nearly all governmental power in 2021, opting to govern by decree. This controversial shift has been widely condemned by opposition groups as a coup, further complicating Tunisia's path amidst its internal struggles and international scrutiny.