Wambui Faith
A Tunisian court on Thursday handed an eight-year prison sentence to Saadia Mosbah, a well-known migrant rights and anti-racism activist, in a decision critics say reflects a growing crackdown on civil society and independent voices.
Her lawyer, Hela Ben Salem, described the ruling as “a major shock,” arguing that it forms part of a wider effort to weaken civil society organisations and shift blame for the government’s handling of migration issues onto these groups.
Last year, authorities ordered the suspension of activities by leading civil society organisations, including the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights and the Association of Democratic Women, citing concerns over foreign funding following financial audits.
Mosbah was charged with money laundering and illicit enrichment, accusations her legal team disputes. They have indicated plans to appeal the verdict. Authorities have not yet issued an official response.
She has been in detention since May 2024, alongside other activists arrested during a broader government crackdown on groups assisting migrants.
The case comes amid mounting pressure on Tunisia as migration flows from across Africa increase, with the country serving as a key transit route for those attempting to reach Europe.
In response, the government has tightened security and introduced stricter laws targeting irregular migration networks, leading to the deportation of thousands of migrants.
However, human rights organisations warn that these actions could further limit humanitarian work and shrink the space for independent advocacy in the country.
Her lawyer, Hela Ben Salem, described the ruling as “a major shock,” arguing that it forms part of a wider effort to weaken civil society organisations and shift blame for the government’s handling of migration issues onto these groups.
Last year, authorities ordered the suspension of activities by leading civil society organisations, including the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights and the Association of Democratic Women, citing concerns over foreign funding following financial audits.
Mosbah was charged with money laundering and illicit enrichment, accusations her legal team disputes. They have indicated plans to appeal the verdict. Authorities have not yet issued an official response.
She has been in detention since May 2024, alongside other activists arrested during a broader government crackdown on groups assisting migrants.
The case comes amid mounting pressure on Tunisia as migration flows from across Africa increase, with the country serving as a key transit route for those attempting to reach Europe.
In response, the government has tightened security and introduced stricter laws targeting irregular migration networks, leading to the deportation of thousands of migrants.
However, human rights organisations warn that these actions could further limit humanitarian work and shrink the space for independent advocacy in the country.
