A prominent Tunisian advocate for migrants, Abdallah Said, has been detained and is being investigated by anti-terrorist authorities. This marks the first time Tunisian authorities have used such measures against an organization dedicated to migration issues.
Said, a Tunisian of Chadian origin, was arrested along with the secretary general and treasurer of his association, Children of the Medenine Moon. Two bank officials associated with the organization were also detained.
Romdhane Ben Amor, a spokesperson for the Tunisian Forum for Social and Economic Rights, expressed concern about the transfer of the case to anti-terrorist investigators, calling it a “dangerous signal.”
The Tunisian government, through a state-linked newspaper, has accused the association of receiving foreign funds to facilitate the illegal entry of sub-Saharan migrants into Tunisia.
Ben Amor condemned Said’s detention as part of a broader crackdown on migration activists, echoing similar actions taken in May 2023. He warned that this move sends a chilling message to those working in solidarity with migrants.
President Kais Saied has been critical of organizations defending migrant rights, labeling their leaders as “traitors and mercenaries.” He has reiterated Tunisia’s stance against becoming a transit country for migrants and asylum seekers.
The European Union, in an effort to curb small-boat crossings to Europe, has provided funds to Tunisia. However, reports of mistreatment and abuse of migrants in Tunisian custody have raised concerns about the adherence to human rights standards in the implementation of these funds.