- The economic and political crises that Tunisia has faced since 2011, most recently exacerbated by President Kaïs Saïed’s consolidation of political power and the resultant political instability, aggravate migration dynamics. Not only are Tunisians involved in smuggling sub-Saharan migrants across the Mediterranean, but they now also represent a significant group of migrants to Europe themselves.
- Migrants have become political pawns in Tunisia, with considerations of domestic political advantage, economic subsidies, and President Saïed’s consolidation of power taking precedence over their well-being.
- Competition between Tunisian and sub-Saharan smuggling networks increased tensions in Sfax in 2023. The backlash against non-Tunisians has led to more restrictive laws for foreign nationals, intensified border controls, and an uptick in racist attacks, in turn fuelling increased departures by sea.
- As a strategic partner in managing Mediterranean migration, Tunisia is a recipient of European Union (EU) financial aid and has focused on border control and managing irregular migration flows. While financial aid is crucial, the prioritization of a securitized approach to migration over humanitarian aspects raises concerns that migrants may be pushed back at the border or at sea.
- Given Tunisia’s current position as a key partner, there is a distinct possibility that it will play a role in the EU’s migration and asylum pact and its ‘screening procedures’, which may further externalize EU borders into third countries. Without concrete protection measures, there is a real risk that migrants’ rights, social and legal integration, and humanitarian needs will further degrade in Tunisia.
| < BACK TO MAIN PAGE | NEXT PAGE > |