Rights Group: Tunisia initiates first-ever terrorism investigation into detained migrant activists

A prominent Tunisian rights organization has revealed that Tunisia has, for the first time, initiated a terrorism investigation involving migrant activists detained by authorities, according to The Guardian. 

This marks a significant shift in the government's approach to addressing migrant-related activism.

A spokesperson for the Tunisian Forum for Social and Economic Rights said 

Abdallah Said, a Tunisian of Chadian origin, was questioned along with the secretary general and treasurer of his association, Children of the Medenine Moon. 

Two bankers handling the organization’s finances were also reportedly detained. 

La Presse, a state-run media outlet, reported that the organization received foreign funds to assist sub-Saharan migrants to enter Tunisia illegally. 

President Kais Saied has previously claimed, in widely condemned comments, that the arrival of large numbers of sub-Saharan migrants is part of a plot financed by criminals to change the demographic makeup of his country. 

The development comes at a time when Tunisia faces growing scrutiny over its treatment of migrants and refugees, with reports of harsh conditions and limited access to legal protections. Advocacy organizations are urging the government to uphold its commitments to international human rights standards while addressing migration challenges.

This unprecedented case is expected to draw international attention as rights groups and legal experts closely monitor its proceedings and potential implications for civil liberties in Tunisia.