Tunisia’s Mafia-Style Operations Under Fire
A recent report has shed light on Tunisia’s underworld, revealing a complex web of criminal activities that have been tolerated by government officials for years.
Criminal Activities and Governmental Stability
According to sources, the country’s mafia-style operations are limited in number and scope, but their presence is felt throughout the nation. These groups are known to engage in illegal activities such as:
- Drug trafficking
- Human trafficking
- Money laundering
The report also highlights the lack of governmental stability, which has led to a loss of faith in state institutions. The absence of significant action against corruption and the systematic undermining of state institutions have caused general disillusionment among Tunisians.
Accountability Systems and Constitutional Freedoms
The country’s accountability systems are inadequate, with a new Constitution that does not provide for adequate checks and balances. This has led to violations of constitutional freedoms and rights.
Criminal Justice and Security Challenges
In terms of criminal justice and security, the judicial system faces many challenges and limitations, including:
- Politicization
- Lack of independence
- Understaffing
- Limited specialized expertise
The prison system is also dysfunctional, with reports of physical and moral violations during arrests and interrogations in security and detention centers.
Police Force Criticism and Human Rights Violations
The Tunisian police force has been criticized for its use of violence against protesters and detainees, with reports of physical and moral violations during arrests and interrogations in security and detention centers.
Economic Crisis and Informal Economy
Economically, Tunisia is facing one of its worst crises since independence, exacerbated by political strife and the COVID-19 pandemic. The informal economy is expanding, while there are few economic opportunities due to:
- High inflation
- Unemployment
- Marginalization
- Regional economic inequality
- Underdevelopment
- Absence of effective reforms
Challenges Faced by Civil Society Organizations
The report also highlights the challenges faced by civil society organizations in Tunisia, including growing hostility towards NGOs involved in victim and witness support activities. Press freedom has also deteriorated since the 2019 elections, with politicians openly attacking journalists.
Conclusion
While Tunisia’s mafia-style operations may be limited in number and scope, their presence is felt throughout the nation, and the country faces a range of challenges that must be addressed to ensure stability and prosperity for its citizens.