RSF Denounces Criminalization of Journalism in Tunisia Amidst Growing Repression
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has issued a statement denouncing the escalating criminalization of journalism in Tunisia, citing a "growing number of proceedings against journalists" within an "increasingly repressive context." The organization has brought the case of journalist Mourad Zeghidi to the attention of the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of expression, Leopoldo Maldonado. Zeghidi has been detained since May 2024 under Decree-Law 54, which carries penalties of up to 10 years in prison for disseminating "rumors and false news." RSF asserts that Zeghidi's charges, stemming from his "journalistic activities" on the radio program Émission Impossible, are not isolated but exemplify a broader trend. The communication to the UN rapporteur details violations of press freedom and the right to information, expressing concern over the frequent use of penal provisions and anti-terrorism legislation against journalists. RSF views Zeghidi's case as evidence of a "judicial system mobilized to silence journalists for exercising their profession." The organization urges the UN rapporteur to condemn this "systematic instrumentalization of the penal system" and to advocate for the release of journalists prosecuted for their work. This appeal follows recent convictions, including journalist Haythem Mekki, sentenced to one year in prison under the Telecommunications Code for a post about hospital morgue conditions, and Zied El Heni, whose one-year sentence for criticizing judicial decisions was upheld. These incidents occur amid a significant deterioration of press freedom since President Kais Saied consolidated power in July 2021. Tunisia ranks 137th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2026 World Press Freedom Index.
The situation in Tunisia highlights a concerning pattern where legal frameworks, originally intended for public order, are being repurposed to suppress journalistic inquiry and dissent. The use of broad statutes like Decree-Law 54 and antiterrorism legislation against journalists, as documented by RSF, suggests a systemic effort to curtail freedom of expression. This approach, particularly in the context of concentrated executive power, risks creating a chilling effect on public discourse, potentially leading to a less informed citizenry and hindering accountability mechanisms. The international community's scrutiny, through bodies like the UN, plays a crucial role in spotlighting such trends and advocating for adherence to international human rights standards. Future developments will likely depend on the resilience of civil society and the judiciary's independence in navigating these complex legal and political pressures.
AI-generated to prompt reflection — not editorial opinion, not advice, not a statement of fact. How this works.