Tunisian journalists' union condemns use of Decree-Law 54 against journalists following Khaoula Boukrim's conviction
via Business News2 min read
The 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
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Mohamed Ali Nafti, Tunisia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad, spoke by phone with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptians Abroad, on Sunday, July 26, 2026. The two ministers reaffirmed the unique nature of Tunisian-Egyptian relations and highlighted the strong historical and fraternal ties between the two countries. They welcomed the positive evolution of bilateral cooperation across several sectors and expressed a shared desire to further strengthen these relations to higher levels, serving the interests of both peoples. They also praised the outcomes of the 18th session of the Tunisian-Egyptian Joint High Commission, held in Cairo in September 2025, emphasizing the importance of regular follow-up on its conclusions. The stated objective is to give new impetus to the partnership between Tunis and Cairo, particularly in economic, commercial, and investment fields, while exploring new cooperation opportunities. Regional developments, especially the situation in Libya, were also a significant part of their discussions. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the results of the meeting of the tripartite mechanism of Libya's neighboring countries, organized in Cairo on May 21, 2026. Nafti reiterated Tunisia's consistent position in favor of preserving Libya's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as respecting its national institutions. The Tunisian minister stress
The Gabès section of the Tunisian League for Human Rights LTDH expressed deep concern on July 25, 2026, regarding two detainee deaths at Gabès civil prison, which it described as "suspicious." The deceased were identified as Ali Bejaoui and Ali Ben Tijani Ben Mohamed Mansi, the latter of whom had a disability. The LTDH reported collecting testimonies indicating deteriorating detention conditions, including repeated water and electricity cuts, significant overcrowding, and cases of suffocation among detainees. The organization believes these conditions endanger physical integrity and raise questions about adherence to minimum standards for individuals deprived of liberty. The LTDH extended condolences to the families and called for an urgent, independent, and transparent investigation to determine the circumstances of the deaths, assign responsibility, and draw legal consequences. It also urged authorities to intervene promptly to improve conditions by ensuring continuous water and electricity supply and addressing overcrowding. The Gabès section requested permission to visit the prison to assess the situation firsthand and implored competent authorities to uphold their responsibility in protecting detainees' rights to life, health, and dignity. The LTDH stated it would continue to monitor the case and initiate legal and human rights actions as deemed appropriate.
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