The Situation in Tunisia

Several tens of people have been killed and many injured in demonstrations and social unrest in Tunisia in recent weeks. State Secretary Espen Barth Eide commented: “Norway is concerned about the situation in Tunisia.”

There have been demonstrations in several parts of the country, despite the fact that the authorities have sent in large police and military forces. Most of the demonstrators are young people protesting against unemployment, difficult living conditions, corruption and violations of human rights.

“Norway deplores the use of violence in Tunisia, and is concerned about reports of large numbers of civilian casualties,” said Mr Eide. “The Tunisian authorities must respect the right to freedom of expression and assembly, which the country has committed itself to in the UN Human Rights Council. Norway urges the authorities to release the bloggers and journalists who have been imprisoned. And we also urge all parties to enter into dialogue to find solutions to the issues raised by the demonstrators.”