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The Day · Wednesday 17 December 2025

Filed 01:51 · Palestine time (UTC+2) · World

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Tunisian Journalists’ Union Warns of Intensifying Media Crackdown

The Tunisian journalists’ union has issued a warning regarding a growing crackdown on media freedom. The warning highlights concerns over a tightening grip on journalistic work and the broader implications for press liberties in Tunisia, amid increasing pressure faced by media professionals in the country.

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 formally sounded the alarm over what it describes as an escalating crackdown on media freedom within the country. According to the union, journalists are facing mounting pressures, as restrictive measures appear to be tightening around media outlets and professionals operating in Tunisia.

This warning comes amid heightened concerns regarding the current state of press freedoms, with the union pointing to tangible restrictions on the ability of journalists to report freely and without fear. It emphasized the growing intensity of actions seen as targeting media operations and journalists’ rights.

From its side, the union argues that this crackdown signals a broader shift against the foundational principles of free press and expression, widely regarded as essential components of a functioning democratic society. The union’s warning reflects an urgent need to address these developments before they further erode journalistic independence in Tunisia.

In addition, the union has drawn attention to what it interprets as an orchestrated effort to intimidate and silence voices within the media community. Observers note that such warnings underline concerns about a climate where freedom of information is being increasingly curtailed, and where the work of journalists is becoming more perilous under growing constraints.

Meanwhile, the warning issued by the Tunisian journalists’ union serves as a stark reminder of the significance of protecting media spaces from encroaching restrictions. The union insists on the importance of maintaining open platforms for reporting and documentation, which it views as essential to safeguarding the public’s right to information.

This declaration by the union reflects fears of sustained pressure being applied to media institutions, possibly undermining the role of journalism as a tool for accountability and transparent governance. The union’s stance, rooted in its commitment to press freedom, emphasizes the growing urgency of defending journalistic rights against what it perceives as an intensifying campaign against media independence.

Across Tunisia, this development has sparked critical discussions among media professionals and human rights advocates. The warning serves not only as an alert but also as a call to action for those committed to upholding the values and guarantees of a free press.

As the warning continues to circulate, the Tunisian journalists’ union remains steadfast in its position. It reiterates the need for national and international attention to what it frames as a serious threat to press freedom in the country. The union’s message underscores the fundamental role of journalists in society and the necessity of ensuring their protection against any form of repression or systematic control.

In conclusion, the gravity of the union’s warning reflects its deep concerns about the direction of media freedom in Tunisia. It is calling on all concerned parties to acknowledge the situation and to act in defense of press liberties and the journalists striving to uphold them under increasing challenges.

17 Dec, 01:51

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