Tunisian women's union calls for legislative reform amid rising violence against women
On National Women's Day, Assia Harrabi, Secretary General of the National Union of Tunisian Women UNFT, highlighted the increasing violence against women and femicides in Tunisia. She called for a revision of legislation to better protect women's rights, noting that the current law criminalizing violence against women has limitations in its application. Harrabi emphasized that the issue extends beyond the legal framework to its effectiveness, advocating for a review of personal status legislation to strengthen women's rights and dignity, and address gaps, particularly concerning new marital practices like customary and "misyar" marriages. She stressed that any legislative review should involve experts from various fields and preserve women's achievements. The UNFT operates reception centers in several regions, including Kairouan, Jendouba, Tataouine, and El Kef, which currently support nearly 200 women and their children with accommodation, material, psychological, and legal assistance. Despite financial difficulties, including employees not receiving salaries for almost three years, the UNFT remains committed to these centers. Harrabi also noted the UNFT's broader involvement in economic empowerment, offering vocational training and supporting artisanal projects for women, including those in rural and disadvantaged areas.