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The Day · Tuesday 16 December 2025

Filed 23:35 · Palestine time (UTC+2) · World

17:04–24:00Dusk and night

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Tunisian Journalists’ Union Sounds Alarm Over Escalating Media Crackdown

The Tunisian journalists’ union has expressed concern over an increasing clampdown on media freedom, warning of a growing campaign targeting journalistic practice. The union’s statement highlights the challenges faced by the press in the country, amid what it describes as mounting pressure on independent reporting.

Journalists are raising placards during a rally staged by the National Union of Tunisian Journalists (SNJT) in front of its headquarters in Tunis, Tunisia, on March 6, 2024, in solidarity with Tunisian journalist Khalifa Guesmi. The journalists participating in the rally are protesting the imprisonment of their colleague and are calling for his release. Khalifa Guesmi was imprisoned after being sentenced on appeal to five years in prison under anti-terrorism legislation. The rally is coinciding with the examination by the Court of Cassation of the journalist’s case. (Photo by Chedly Ben Ibrahim/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The Tunisian journalists’ union has warned of what it describes as an escalating crackdown on media freedom. In a statement issued recently, the union raised the alarm over increasing restrictions faced by media professionals in Tunisia. According to the union, the current climate poses a serious threat to journalistic independence and freedom of expression in the country.

This latest warning underscores what the union views as a growing trend of repression, marked by a tightening grip on the media. The union emphasized that measures taken in recent periods reflect a deliberate attempt to silence independent voices and obstruct the work of journalists operating across the country.

From its side, the union called on all concerned parties to recognize the severity of the situation and to act in defense of media rights. It stated that the targeting of journalists and the constraints placed on media outlets must end to preserve the gains of freedom that were achieved through collective struggle and sacrifice.

Meanwhile, the union reiterated its unconditional commitment to defending press freedom and the right of journalists to carry out their work without fear or interference. It warned that any attempt to marginalize or discredit the press would only deepen the crisis and further isolate those in positions of authority from the people’s legitimate aspirations.

In addition, the union pointed to the heightened risks faced by journalists as a result of the current environment, describing it as one that fosters intimidation and undermines democratic principles. It cautioned that allowing such practices to continue unchecked could inflict long-term damage on the country’s media landscape and civic space.

The union’s position reflects mounting frustration among media workers, who have increasingly voiced concern over restrictions and pressure tactics. The statement issued by the union serves as a call to solidarity among journalists and a demand for protection of the right to report without harassment or reprisal.

The union concluded its statement by affirming its role as a defender of media freedom and its readiness to confront any further attempts to erode that right. It pledged to continue organizing and mobilizing in coordination with other civil society forces to resist the growing clampdown and safeguard the space for independent journalism in Tunisia.

As concerns deepen, the union’s call marks a significant development in the unfolding situation, reflecting the resilience of journalists determined to uphold their mission amid increasing challenges. The voice of the union stands as a reminder of the enduring struggle for truth and the indispensable role of free media in the face of rising pressures.

16 Dec, 23:35

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