The Regional Labor Union in Al Amira and Jebeniana, located in Sfax Governorate, Tunisia, has threatened a general strike to protest against the significant influx of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa and its repercussions on public life in the region. These rural areas have become a destination for thousands of migrants following the 2023 authorities’ enforcement of restrictions on their presence in public streets and squares in Sfax city after violent incidents with locals.
The local labor union in Al Amira and Jebeniana stated in a press release that they are “deeply concerned about the deteriorating social situation, which has persisted for several months due to the arrival of large numbers of sub-Saharan Africans and the serious consequences in health, environmental, and social sectors.”
The statement highlighted recent events in Al Amira and Jebeniana, indicating an escalation to violence and attacks on individuals and private property. The migrants’ tents are widespread across fields and olive groves in the area, with many aiming to cross the Mediterranean to nearby Italian islands via human smugglers.
The union clarified that the local residents’ rejection of the dense presence of Africans is not based on racism. They called on authorities to “find radical solutions that ensure the dignity of the African newcomers and the natural right to a safe life for all residents.”
Italy is conducting intensive security coordination with Tunisia to curb migrant flows across its shores. During a recent visit to Tunisia, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced aid exceeding 100 million euros.
The situation regarding illegal immigration in Tunisia has become a focal point both domestically and internationally, given its strategic geographical position as a transit country for migrants aiming to reach Europe. In 2023, Tunisia has experienced a significant influx of sub-Saharan African migrants, which has led to social and political tension.
President Kais Saied has expressed concerns that this migration is intended to alter Tunisia’s demographic composition and has implemented stringent measures to curb illegal immigration. These include increased border controls and restrictions on migrants’ movements within the country, particularly following incidents of violence involving migrants and local populations in cities like Sfax.
The European Union is actively collaborating with Tunisia to manage this migration through financial aid and security cooperation. A deal signed between the EU and Tunisia includes a substantial financial package aimed at controlling the migration flow, which involves clamping down on smuggling operations and strengthening border management. This agreement, however, has faced criticism from human rights organizations and some European lawmakers, who argue that it may lead to human rights abuses and fail to address the migrants’ safety and dignity adequately.
