Tunisia Sentences Rights Defenders to Prison as Crackdown on Civil Society Deepens

Tunisian courts have sentenced eight human rights defenders to prison terms and heavy fines in cases linked to their activism.

Sihem Bensedrine, former president of the Truth and Dignity Commission, received a 25-year sentence and a massive fine.

Saadia Mosbah, president of anti-racism group Mnemty, was sentenced to eight years in prison.

Human Rights Watch described the convictions as a devastating blow to civic space and freedom of expression in Tunisia.

The cases are linked to the defenders’ work on truth and reconciliation, racial discrimination, and accountability for past abuses.

Critics say the rulings reflect a widening crackdown under President Kais Saied’s administration.

The organisation called on authorities to overturn the convictions and release the detained activists.

Tunisia is a signatory to international agreements protecting freedom of expression and fair trial rights.

The developments have raised international concern over the shrinking space for civil society in the country.

Source: FSX Business News