Editorial photo #13564660 Social Issue
Tunis Takes To The Streets Against Racism And Fascism
A demonstrator holds up two placards, one reading, 'Racism, xenophobia, hate out!' and the other in Arabic, 'Glory to people's solidarity, shame on the racism of rulers,' during a march organized by the Campaign Against the Criminalization of Civil Work to protest racism in Tunis, Tunisia, on April 11, 2026. The demonstration, which includes human rights organizations, civil society groups, and activists, addresses concerns about what participants describe as a rise in rhetoric perceived as racist and inciting, as well as efforts to criminalize solidarity with civil, political, and trade union work, and the targeting of activists and advocates. These actions are viewed by participants as a threat to the values of freedom, dignity, and equality. President Kais Saied's rhetoric in recent years has been criticized by human rights groups, opposition figures, and international observers, who describe it as increasingly xenophobic and authoritarian. Following his 2023 remarks on Sub-Saharan African migrants, critics argue that his language contributed to a climate of hostility and legitimized certain narratives in public discourse. Supporters, however, view his stance as part of a broader agenda focused on anti-corruption efforts and national sovereignty. (Photo by Chedly Ben Ibrahim/NurPhoto)
