The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has expressed serious concern over the growing anti-migrant campaign in Tunisia, warning that migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers are increasingly facing discrimination, hate speech, and unfair accusations as economic and social tensions continue to rise in the country.
In a statement released by ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle, the organisation strongly condemned all forms of racism and xenophobia directed at migrant communities. Triangle stressed that migrant workers should not be blamed for economic crises, unemployment, or social instability, adding that they are often among the most vulnerable victims of these challenges.
“We denounce all forms of racism and xenophobia and reject all attempts to divide workers by hate and fear. Migrant workers are not the cause of economic and social crises; they are equal victims,” Triangle said in the statement.
The ITUC argued that the Tunisian government should focus on addressing the real causes of the country’s economic problems instead of using migrants as scapegoats. According to the organisation, human dignity, equality, and workers’ rights must remain at the centre of all migration and labour policies.
The organisation also warned that anti-migrant narratives are being fuelled by fear, misinformation, and political tensions while the deeper structural causes of economic hardship remain unresolved. ITUC believes that issues such as unemployment, inflation, poverty, and lack of opportunities cannot be solved by targeting vulnerable migrant communities.
The global labour body reminded authorities that the rights and protections of migrants are not optional. These protections are based on international labour standards, global human rights laws, and the principles of democracy and social justice. The ITUC called on Tunisian authorities to immediately ensure the safety and protection of all migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers living in the country.
In addition, the organisation urged the Tunisian government to protect civil society groups, trade unionists, lawyers, and human rights defenders who continue to support migrants and defend fundamental freedoms. According to the ITUC, these groups play an important role in helping vulnerable people access legal protection, shelter, healthcare, and humanitarian support.
The ITUC also called for Tunisia to adopt a clear and comprehensive migration policy that is based on human rights and international labour standards. The organisation said migration policies should focus on decent work opportunities, fairness, inclusion, and protection for all workers regardless of nationality or immigration status.
The organisation further expressed concern about similar developments in South Africa, where attacks against foreign nationals have reportedly increased since April. According to reports, groups of protesters have been targeting migrants whom they accuse of being in the country illegally, taking jobs from local citizens, and contributing to crime.
The ITUC condemned all forms of mob justice and urged the South African government to take immediate action to stop attacks against migrants and restore public safety. The organisation noted that immigrants contribute greatly to South Africa’s economy through labour, entrepreneurship, and cultural diversity, and therefore deserve protection under both national and international laws.
The labour organisation also encouraged countries of origin to improve economic opportunities, strengthen labour markets, and cooperate internationally to reduce forced migration. ITUC said governments across Africa and beyond must work together to address the root causes that push people to leave their homes in search of safety, jobs, and better living conditions.
The statement comes at a time when migration debates are becoming increasingly sensitive across many countries, with human rights organisations warning that hate speech and misinformation against migrants could lead to further violence and social instability if urgent action is not taken.