Leaked EU document reveals concerns over credibility due to support for Tunisia's increasing autocracy

A leaked report by the EU’s chief diplomat, Josep Borrell, obtained by the Guardian, reveals concerns about the reputational impact of the EU's partnership with Tunisia on migration issues. These concerns arise as Tunisia faces mounting allegations of human rights violations under President Kais Saied, who is seeking another term.

The five-page letter, reportedly sent to 27 EU foreign ministers on July 7th, states that “EU-Tunisia relations have become more complex." It further mentions the challenge of maintaining "a difficult balance between the EU’s credibility in terms of values and its interest in staying constructively engaged with the Tunisian authorities.”

In 2023, the EU signed a “migrant deal” with Tunisia, pledging hundreds of millions of dollars in exchange for Tunisia’s help in curbing the flow of irregular migrants to Europe. Critics argue that the deal financially supports authoritarianism while ignoring human rights abuses against both migrants and political opponents.

While the leaked report admits to "a clear deterioration of the political climate and a shrinking civic space" in Tunisia, it also emphasizes the need for continued support to prevent other foreign powers—believed to be China, Iran, and Russia—from gaining influence in the country.