Tunisia finds itself at the center of a contentious debate regarding the housing of asylum-seekers amidst negotiations with the European Union. While Tunisia serves as a vital ally in curbing migration to Europe, human rights observers express reservations about its suitability as a “safe” place for migrants due to ongoing government crackdowns.
Proposals resembling the UK’s recent “Rwanda plan” for transferring asylum-seekers to Africa have emerged, suggesting Tunisia as a potential host. However, President Kais Saied firmly opposes such plans, asserting that Tunisia will neither serve as a center nor a crossing point for sub-Saharan migrants, nor accept migrants deported from Europe.
Despite contradictory views between the European Union and Tunisia, recent agreements between Italy and Tunisia under Italy’s “Mattei Plan” for Africa aim to foster economic opportunities and curb migration. These agreements come amidst EU offers of financial support to Tunisia to mitigate irregular migration, demonstrating a pragmatic partnership.
Tightened controls by Tunisia’s border patrol forces have resulted in intercepting thousands of migrants before reaching European waters, contributing to a significant decrease in migrant arrivals in Italy compared to previous years. However, concerns persist regarding the treatment of migrants intercepted at sea and upon return to Tunisia, where reports of mistreatment, arbitrary arrests, and detention surface.
Tunisia’s lack of official asylum laws and a functioning asylum system further complicates the situation for migrants, leaving many in limbo without legal status or access to essential services. Despite UNHCR’s efforts to register refugees and asylum-seekers, inadequate humanitarian support leaves many homeless and destitute.
The upcoming presidential election in Tunisia and public sentiment against migrants indicate a reluctance to prioritize improving conditions for migrants in the country. Instead, political focus remains on addressing economic crises and appeasing the population, potentially overshadowing human rights concerns and the country’s role in Mediterranean migration control.