Anti-Migrant Sentiment in Tunisia Poses Grave Risks for…

In Tunisia, a growing anti-migrant sentiment and government repression threaten the safety of Sub-Saharan migrants like Jonas, who fled from ethnic violence in Nigeria. The UN refugee agency ceased new applications at the government’s behest, while civil society organizations face arrests. Amidst economic struggles, both locals and authorities increasingly view migrants as burdens, leading to severe violations of their rights. Collaborations with European leaders to deter migration further complicate the situation.

Jonas, a Nigerian who fled ethnic violence, spent over a year reaching Tunisia, only to encounter severe anti-migrant sentiment and a governmental crackdown that has left him without assistance. He traversed through Niger and Libya, escaping persecution against his Igbo community. Upon his arrival in Tunis, Jonas faced a non-functioning asylum system and a prohibition on aid organizations supporting migrants.

In 2023, Tunisian President Kais Saied declared that “hordes of illegal migrants” posed a demographic risk to the nation, shortly prompting racially charged violence against sub-Saharan migrants, with many being expelled from urban areas. The World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT) reported a continuing governmental strategy of criminalizing migrants, depriving them of essential support and placing them in precarious situations.

In June 2022, the UN refugee agency ceased accepting new applications in the country, following directives from the Tunisian government. Officials have rebuffed these claims, asserting a commitment to both security and international obligations concerning migrants. The civil society sector has shrunk under Saied’s administration, with many aiding organizations facing increased scrutiny, detention, and operational limitations.

Key figures within the migrant aid community, including Mustapha Djemali of the Tunisian Refugee Council and anti-racism leader Saadia Mosbah, have been arrested amidst a governmental crackdown that paints activists as “traitors and mercenaries”. This has led multiple organizations to suspend or change their initiatives in response.

Romdhane Ben Amor from the Tunisian rights group FTDES criticized the government’s approach as intentionally destabilizing for migrants. As Tunisia grapples with high unemployment and economic stagnation, locals feel overwhelmed by the burden of supporting migrants. The collaboration between Tunisian and European leaders to limit migration has resulted in further abuses against sub-Saharan individuals.

Following agreements with Europe, migrant arrivals in the central Mediterranean dropped significantly by 2024, a development the Italian government heralded as successful despite increasing reports of serious violations against migrants in Tunisia. Allegations include mass deportations and the selling of migrants into armed group captivity in Libya, raising alarms in the rights advocacy community.

The rise of anti-migrant sentiment in Tunisia poses significant challenges for those fleeing persecution, as governmental actions increasingly jeopardize their safety and well-being. Jonas’ plight exemplifies the struggles faced by Sub-Saharan migrants in a hostile environment, where aid is scarce and legal protections are eroding. The complicity of European nations in supporting repressive measures further exacerbates the crisis, highlighting a pressing need for international humanitarian intervention and recognition of the inherent rights of migrants.

Original Source: www.thehindu.com