French film critical of Tunisia raises tensions between two nations

A French documentary critical of Tunisia’s government has caused a furor among supporters of President Kais Saied. 

Speaking at a press conference in Paris, Tunisian Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani called the film an “unfriendly act by our French friends” and said it was aimed at insulting Tunisia and harming bilateral relations between Tunis and Paris.

Aired on March 3^rd, on the French channel M6, the film explores what it alleges are diminishing freedoms in Tunisia, the country’s economic challenges, and the plight of sub-Saharan African refugees and migrants marginalized in Tunisian society. 

According to Al Jazeera, essayist Hatem Nafti, who contributed to the documentary has been a victim of much of the backlash. "The [furore has] been intense, and I’m not sure when it’s going to end,” he said.

The strong reaction to the film has reportedly increased its profile within Tunisia causing many to debate its merits.