UN Experts Urge Tunisia to Uphold Judicial Rights for Arrested Rights Defender

Bensedrine, a former President of the Truth and Dignity Commission (TVD) and a prominent journalist, has been involved in documenting human rights violations and corruption in Tunisia.

UN experts have called on Tunisian authorities to uphold the judicial guarantees and protection rights of Sihem Bensedrine, who was arrested on August 1, 2024. Bensedrine, a former President of the Truth and Dignity Commission (TVD) and a prominent journalist, has been involved in documenting human rights violations and corruption in Tunisia.

Concerns Over Arrest

The experts expressed grave concerns about Bensedrine's arrest in the context of a broader suppression of dissenting voices in Tunisia. They argue that her detention could undermine freedom of opinion and expression, sending a chilling message to journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society.

Bensedrine has been under investigation since 2021 for alleged falsification of a chapter in the TVD’s final report, which deals with corruption in the banking system. The independent human rights experts have previously engaged with the Tunisian government about this investigation.

Judicial Harassment Allegations

The experts suggested that Bensedrine’s arrest might constitute judicial harassment related to her role in the Truth and Dignity Commission. They assert that it could be an attempt to discredit the Commission’s findings and obstruct legal actions against alleged corruption perpetrators from previous regimes.

Call for Fair Trial

The Special Rapporteurs have urged Tunisia to adhere to its obligations to protect individuals involved in human rights commissions from defamation and legal actions resulting from their work. They stressed the need for strict adherence to judicial guarantees, including a fair trial, due process, impartiality, and independence.

The experts have called for an end to abusive legal proceedings and reprisals against Bensedrine, emphasizing the importance of upholding her rights and ensuring fair treatment throughout the legal process.