Civil society organizations denounce pressure on independent cultural spaces in Tunisia

Several civil society organizations in Tunisia have issued a joint statement expressing "total solidarity" with Ciné-Théâtre Le Rio and other independent cultural spaces. This follows Le Rio's allegations of measures by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, including subsidy cuts, closure of its cafe, threats of exclusion from major cultural events, and repeated administrative controls. The signatory organizations, which include the Tunisian League for Human Rights LTDH, the National Syndicate of Tunisian Journalists SNJT, and the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights FTDES, believe these actions are part of a broader campaign to restrict independent spaces that host public debate, cultural activities, political discussions, and human rights advocacy. They argue that Le Rio has become a crucial venue for opposition political parties, human rights organizations, and independent cultural initiatives as other spaces for freedom diminish. The organizations view the targeting of Le Rio as an attack on fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, creation, assembly, and the right to participate in cultural life, all guaranteed by the Tunisian Constitution and international conventions. They demand an end to administrative, financial, and political pressures against independent cultural spaces and call for transparent and equitable public subsidies. They also urge national organizations, unions, artists, intellectuals, and democratic forces to mobilize in defense of th