Tunisian Society of Clinical Sexology condemns MP's remarks on sexual violence

The Tunisian Society of Clinical Sexology STSC has strongly condemned statements made by MP Tarak Mahdi during a parliamentary session on April 13, 2026, calling them inappropriate and a dangerous trivialization of sexual violence. In a statement released on April 14, 2026, the STSC expressed its "strong indignation" over remarks that discussed sexual violence "in a light tone," arguing that they undermine the seriousness of rape as a crime and the dignity of victims. Mahdi's comments were made in response to Interior Minister Khaled Nouri's address regarding the management of sub-Saharan migrants, where the minister mentioned criticisms of his department, including accusations of violence and rape of African women by security agents. Mahdi stated, "These people must leave at all costs. All red lines have been crossed," adding, "That an African woman be raped, that cannot happen. In Tunisia, we have beauty. We lack nothing. We have everything." The STSC emphasized that such remarks contribute to the trivialization of rape, a serious crime affecting the physical and psychological integrity of victims, while also conveying "sexist and racist stereotypes, contrary to the fundamental principles of dignity, equality, and respect for human rights." The organization called for an unequivocal condemnation of all forms of sexual violence and increased responsibility in public discourse. Thabet El Abed, MP and President of the Committee on Rights and Freedoms, also condemned Mahdi's st