What's happened
As of December 2025, Tunisia's Court of Appeal upheld prison sentences ranging from 2 to 45 years for around 40 opposition figures, including activists, lawyers, and politicians. The convictions stem from a politically charged mass trial accusing them of conspiracy and terrorism. Rights groups condemn the verdicts as a crackdown on dissent under President Kais Saied's rule, with hunger strikes underway by some prisoners.
What's behind the headline?
Political Repression Under the Guise of Security
The mass trial and harsh sentences reflect a systematic effort by President Kais Saied to consolidate power by eliminating political opposition through the judiciary. The charges of conspiracy and terrorism appear unfounded, serving as tools to silence dissent rather than uphold justice.
Erosion of Judicial Independence
The rapid trial process, lack of defendants' presence, and appeals that upheld convictions despite due process violations indicate a compromised judiciary. Saied's prior moves to dissolve judicial bodies and threaten judges who acquit defendants underscore this erosion.
Impact on Tunisian Society and Democracy
The imprisonment of prominent activists, lawyers, and opposition leaders deepens Tunisia's democratic backslide, undermining freedoms won during the Arab Spring. Public protests and hunger strikes highlight growing domestic resistance but also the regime's tightening grip.
International and Regional Implications
Tunisia's descent into authoritarianism threatens its image as the Arab Spring's sole democratic success. The crackdown risks isolating Tunisia internationally, especially as European institutions call for the release of political prisoners.
Forecast
Unless there is significant internal or external pressure, the regime will likely continue using the judiciary to suppress opposition. This will exacerbate political instability and economic hardship, potentially fueling further protests and unrest.
What the papers say
Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International uniformly condemn the sentences as politically motivated, with HRW's Bassam Khawaja calling the arrests "the latest step in President Kais Saied's scheme to eliminate any alternative to his one-man rule" (All Africa). The New Arab and The Independent provide detailed accounts of defendants like Ahmed Hammami, who declared a hunger strike and denounced the trial as a "sham" and politically driven. Hammami's daughter described the court as having "lost all its independence" (The New Arab, AP News). Al Jazeera highlights the broad scope of the crackdown, noting the targeting of opposition leaders, former officials, and journalists, and quoting Amnesty's Sara Hashash who called the appeals court decision "an appalling indictment of the Tunisian justice system." Meanwhile, Tunisian authorities and President Saied reject accusations of political motivation, framing prosecutions as necessary to protect national security (All Africa, Al Jazeera). Protests reported by The Times of Israel and The New Arab illustrate widespread public discontent, with demonstrators chanting "The people want the fall of the regime" and decrying the country’s economic and political decline. The coverage collectively paints a picture of a deepening authoritarian crackdown under the guise of legal proceedings, with significant implications for Tunisia's democratic future.
How we got here
Since President Kais Saied's 2021 power grab, Tunisia has seen a crackdown on political opposition and dissent. Saied suspended parliament, ruled by decree, and enacted laws restricting free speech. Numerous opposition figures, journalists, and activists have been prosecuted, often on terrorism or false news charges, amid accusations of judicial manipulation and repression.
Go deeper
- What led to the mass trial of opposition figures in Tunisia?
- How has President Kais Saied justified the crackdown on dissent?
- What are the international reactions to Tunisia's political repression?
Common question
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Why Was Journalist Dahmani Detained in Tunisia?
The recent detention and subsequent release of journalist Dahmani has sparked widespread attention and concern about political repression in Tunisia. Many wonder what led to her arrest, what her release signifies for freedom of speech, and how ongoing protests are shaping the country's political landscape. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this case and what it reveals about Tunisia's current situation.
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Why Was Journalist Dahmani Released in Tunisia?
The recent release of journalist Dahmani has sparked widespread discussion about political freedom and repression in Tunisia. Her case highlights the ongoing struggles for civil liberties under President Kais Saied's government. Many are asking what her release signifies for dissent and press freedom in the country. Below, we explore key questions about her case, the state of political rights in Tunisia, and the international response to these developments.
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Why Is Tunisia Cracking Down on Critics and Journalists?
Recent developments in Tunisia have raised concerns about civil liberties and political freedom. The government, under President Kais Saied, has intensified its crackdown on critics, journalists, and protesters. This page explores why these actions are happening, what they mean for Tunisia's future, and how the international community is responding. If you're wondering about the reasons behind these arrests, protests, and the broader political context, keep reading to get clear, concise answers.
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What’s Behind Tunisia’s Political Crackdown?
Tunisia is currently experiencing a significant crackdown on dissent, with arrests of critics, journalists, and protesters under President Kais Saied’s rule. This has raised concerns about the country’s political stability and civil liberties. Many wonder what the government’s goals are, how citizens are reacting, and whether this trend signals deeper issues in North Africa. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this ongoing crisis and what it means for Tunisia’s future.
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What Are International Reactions to Tunisia’s Civil Liberties Erosion?
Tunisia has been facing increasing criticism over its crackdown on dissent and civil liberties under President Kais Saied. International organizations, governments, and human rights groups are closely watching the situation, raising questions about sanctions, diplomatic actions, and what Tunisia can do to restore its image. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding the global response to Tunisia’s political crisis and civil rights issues.
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How Are Civil Liberties in Tunisia Being Affected Right Now?
Tunisia is currently experiencing a significant crackdown on dissent, with authorities arresting critics and journalists. This raises urgent questions about the state of civil liberties in the country. Are basic rights being protected or eroded? What does this mean for Tunisia’s future? Below, we explore the key issues and answer common questions about the ongoing political crisis and its impact on civil freedoms.
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What’s Behind the Protests in Tunisia Right Now?
Recent protests in Tunisia have captured global attention, raising questions about the country's political climate and civil liberties. Many wonder why people are taking to the streets, how authorities are responding, and what the future might hold. Below, we explore the key issues fueling the unrest and what it means for Tunisia’s future.
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Can Tunisia Maintain Its Democratic Institutions Amid Crackdown?
Tunisia is currently facing a serious political crisis as President Kais Saied intensifies his crackdown on dissent. With arrests of critics, journalists, and widespread protests, many are asking whether Tunisia can sustain its democratic institutions or if it’s heading toward authoritarianism. Below, we explore the key questions about Tunisia’s political future, regional stability, and what experts predict for the country’s democracy.
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Why Is Tunisia Jailing Critics Now?
Recent developments in Tunisia have seen the government imprisoning opposition figures, journalists, and activists on charges that many believe are politically motivated. This crackdown raises questions about the state of democracy in Tunisia and the broader implications for North Africa. Below, we explore the reasons behind these arrests, international reactions, and what it means for Tunisia's future.
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What’s Really Going On in Today’s Major News Stories?
With so many headlines shaping our world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. From political crackdowns to international disputes and security threats, understanding the bigger picture helps make sense of the chaos. Below, we explore key questions about today’s top stories and what they mean for the global landscape.
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Why Is Tunisia Jailing Opposition Figures Now?
Recent developments in Tunisia have seen a surge in the jailing of opposition figures, raising concerns about the country's democratic future. Many ask why these arrests are happening now and what they mean for political freedom in Tunisia. Below, we explore the reasons behind these actions, the charges involved, and the broader implications for human rights and democracy.
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What’s Behind the Rising Tensions in Global News Today?
Today’s headlines reveal a world in flux, with political crackdowns, international conflicts, and major reforms making headlines. From Tunisia’s crackdown on opposition figures to Haiti’s ongoing security crisis, these stories highlight the complex and often tense state of global affairs. Curious about what’s driving these events? Below, we answer some of the most pressing questions about today’s news and what they mean for the world.
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How Are Countries Responding to Political and Security Crises?
In today's rapidly changing world, countries are taking diverse actions to handle political unrest and security threats. From crackdowns on opposition figures to international peacekeeping efforts, understanding these responses helps clarify global stability. Curious about what governments are doing and how these crises impact everyday life? Read on to explore the latest developments and their implications.
More on these topics
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Kais Saied is a Tunisian politician, jurist and former lecturer serving as the fifth President of Tunisia since October 2019. He was president of the Tunisian Association of Constitutional Law from 1995 to 2019.
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Ayachi Hammami is a Tunisian politician. He was the second minister after the prime minister and is responsible for human rights and relations with constitutional bodies and civil society.
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Rached Ghannouchi, also spelled Rachid al-Ghannouchi or Rached el-Ghannouchi, is a Tunisian politician and thinker, co-founder of the Ennahdha Party and serving as its intellectual leader. He was born Rashad Khriji.
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Human Rights Watch is an international non-governmental organization, headquartered in New York City, that conducts research and advocacy on human rights.