Tunisia's Human Rights Crisis: Calls for ICC Intervention

Lawyers and families of jailed Tunisian opposition leaders have urged the International Criminal Court to investigate political persecution and abuses against Black African migrants in Tunisia. This marks the second request for an ICC probe. The call comes ahead of the October 6 elections, with newly surfaced evidence of brutal treatment of migrants.

Lawyers and families of imprisoned Tunisian opposition leaders have appealed to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for an investigation into political persecution and the abuse of Black African migrants in Tunisia. This follows financial support from the European Union aimed at curbing migration issues within the North African nation.

This marks the second instance wherein opposition members have sought an ICC probe. Last year, families of seven detained politicians urged the court to investigate human rights violations by President Kais Saied's administration, which they claim include political persecution.

Currently, the new request precedes the upcoming October 6 elections where President Saied seeks re-election. Lawyer Rodney Dixon emphasized the brutal treatment of Black African migrants by Tunisian authorities, describing it as crimes against humanity. The ICC's prosecution office confirmed receipt of the request and is already investigating similar allegations concerning migrants in Libya.

(With inputs from agencies.)