Civil society, politicians, and journalists mobilize for the release of journalist Zied El-Heni
via Business News3 min read
A collective of civil society actors, politicians, and media professionals issued a joint statement on Monday, April 27, 2026, calling for the release of journalist Zied El-Heni and denouncing increasing pressure on independent media. The signatories stated that El-Heni's detention on April 24, 2026, is part of a broader trend of "pressure, prosecutions, and trials" targeting information professionals. They argue that the charges against him, based on Article 86 of the Telecommunications Code, undermine freedom of expression and the journalistic profession. The statement links this case to others, including the incarceration of journalists Mourad Zeghidi and Borhen Bsaies, detained for over 700 days, and the prosecution of lawyer and columnist Sonia Dahmani. The signatories also warned about threats to the independent media outlet Inkyfada, which could face dissolution. They criticized the use of legal provisions like decree-law 54 and Article 86 of the Telecommunications Code, which they deem inconsistent with the Constitution and Tunisia's international commitments, while regretting the marginalization of decree-law 115, considered the reference legal framework for the media and publishing sector. The collective expressed solidarity with professional and independent press freedom organizations, including the National Syndicate of Tunisian Journalists and the Press Council, as well as alternative media and critical voices, which they believe are exposed to smear campaigns an
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Must ReadThe National Union of Tunisian Journalists SNJT has condemned the continued use of Decree-Law No. 54, related to combating information and communication system offenses, to prosecute journalists, media professionals, and individuals expressing critical opinions. The union stated on Thursday, June 11, 2026, that this practice seriously threatens press freedom and freedom of expression, fostering a climate of fear and self-censorship. The latest case involves journalist Khaoula Boukrim, director of "Tunisia Media" news site, who was sentenced in absentia to four years in prison with immediate execution. According to the SNJT, these convictions stem from two cases initiated by the Public Prosecutor at the Tunis 1 Court of First Instance, following critical publications about public policies on Facebook. The SNJT expressed deep concern over the judicial handling of cases involving journalists, citing a lack of fair trial guarantees, defense rights, and timely notification of judicial decisions. The union views the toughening of prison sentences for journalists based on their opinions or journalistic work as a clear violation of constitutional and international guarantees of freedom of expression and press freedom. The SNJT reiterated its opposition to Decree-Law No. 54 in publication and expression cases, arguing that media content disputes should be handled under Decree-Law No. 115 on press, printing, and publishing freedom, in line with international standards. The union called
Must ReadSeveral protest movements were observed on Thursday, June 11, 2026, in different regions of the country, according to a report published by Romdhane Ben Amor, spokesperson for the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights FTDES. In Tunis, unemployed higher education graduates gathered in Kasbah Square to demand professional integration. Romdhane Ben Amor stated that this mobilization was marked by arrests and what he described as "security harassment" against the demonstrators. In the Tataouine governorate, environmental company workers began their third consecutive day of protest, denouncing the non-payment of their salaries for April and May. Also in the capital, shrimp fishermen organized a rally in front of the Ministry of Agriculture to voice their demands. In Kairouan, young people from the locality of Rouissat continued their sit-in, while in Jendouba, higher education agents protested against delays in receiving their professional attire. Additionally, the red armband protest continued in all branches of Qatar Bank in Tunisia, as part of a movement initiated by employees. In Sfax, the regional labor union organized a march and rally focused on the demands of private sector employees, particularly concerning salaries, collective bargaining, and the defense of purchasing power. This overview illustrates the diversity of social demands currently expressed across the country, amidst persistent tensions related to employment, remuneration, and working conditions.
The Arts & Culture by UIB Foundation, the cultural arm of the Union Internationale de Banques UIB, has reaffirmed its commitment as the main patron of the El Jem International Symphonic Music Festival. This announcement was made during the pre-launch event for the 39th edition, held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Dar Africa – El Jem Museum. The festival, which runs from July 11 to August 15, 2026, will feature ten evenings with artists and orchestras from various countries. This marks the first time the pre-launch event has taken place in El Jem, near the Roman amphitheater that hosts the concerts. Moufida Hamza, president of the Arts & Culture by UIB Foundation, highlighted the UIB's consistent support since 2018, emphasizing that their patronage extends beyond financial contributions to include a long-term commitment to artistic creation, Tunisian heritage, and cultural outreach. She noted the foundation renewed its three-year sponsorship in April 2025 for both the El Jem and Dougga International Festivals. Hichem Oun, secretary general of the Festival Association, thanked the foundation for its support. The 39th edition's program, presented by artistic director Mabrouk Layouni, includes performances from Tunisia, Austria, Spain, Italy, and France, featuring opera, symphonic works, film scores, and contemporary creations. Highlights include "Dido and Aeneas" by the Tunis Opera Theater, "Tarabiat symphoniques" with Dorsaf Hamdani and the Sousse Symphony Orchestra, and a tri