Increased violence against migrants and crackdown on migrant communities in Tunisia under Saied's administration.

The Saied administration has adopted a harsh stance towards migrants, particularly those from sub-Saharan Africa, whom the president has accused of contributing to crime and social unrest. In early 2023, Saied’s inflammatory statements portrayed migrants as part of a demographic threat to Tunisia, which fueled xenophobic sentiments among segments of the population. This rhetoric has resulted in extreme violence against migrants, prompting a crackdown by security forces that included arrests, deportations, and the demolition of makeshift camps. Reports indicate that security operations have targeted migrant communities across Tunisia, particularly in urban areas, exacerbating their vulnerability and leading to a climate of fear. As the country grapples with economic challenges and political instability, the treatment of migrants has emerged as a controversial issue, reflecting broader societal tensions and the government’s approach to managing migration and demographic changes.

Government Actions and Reactions

• Increased Crackdown: The government has intensified its enforcement actions against migrant communities, leading to mass arrests and deportations. Many migrants have found themselves detained or expelled under harsh conditions.

• Anti-Migrant Rhetoric: Saied’s administration has employed anti-migrant rhetoric, framing migrants as a threat to national security and social order, which has legitimized violence against these communities.

• Violence Against Migrants: The hostile environment has resulted in violent incidents against migrants, with reports of attacks and hostility from local communities fueled by the government’s narrative.

Broader Implications

The crackdown on migrants reflects Tunisia’s broader socio-political challenges, including economic hardship and rising unemployment. As the government struggles to address these issues, migrants have become scapegoats in a narrative that seeks to unify the populace against an external “other.” The situation raises significant human rights concerns and poses questions about Tunisia’s commitment to international norms regarding the treatment of migrants and refugees.