The new anti-terror law in Tunisia, after a series of recent terror attacks, has evoked mixed reactions. The bill has been criticised by human rights groups and has been labeled draconian. The president of the Assembly in Tunisia, Mohammed Ennaceur, welcomed the passing of the “law against terrorism and money laundering,” calling it a historic moment. Mr. Ennaceur added that this would be welcomed by the citizens.
The law was passed after three intense debating by the 174 members of the parliament, with 10 members abstaining and none voting against the legislation. The law received support from the secular as well as the Islamist parties. On the other hand, activists are critical, saying the law poses a real threat to rights and liberties in Tunisia while some others said terrorism can’t be fought with regressive reforms.
There were other issues raised such as the definition of terrorist crimes being vague, stifling popular movements, power of the authorities to detain suspects without giving them access to lawyers, capital punishment being brought back. The reactions from civil society were in stark contrast to the lawmakers. There was a need to unite the country to fight terror and overcome this crisis, said President Beji Caid Essebsi.
Author Profile
- India Writes Network (www.indiawrites.org) is an emerging think tank and a media-publishing company focused on international affairs & the India Story. Centre for Global India Insights is the research arm of India Writes Network. To subscribe to India and the World, write to editor@indiawrites.org. A venture of TGII Media Private Limited, a leading media, publishing and consultancy company, IWN has carved a niche for balanced and exhaustive reporting and analysis of international affairs. Eminent personalities, politicians, diplomats, authors, strategy gurus and news-makers have contributed to India Writes Network, as also “India and the World,” a magazine focused on global affairs.
Latest entries
India and the WorldNovember 19, 2024Modi Strengthens Global Ties Through Key Bilateral Talks at G20 Summit in Rio- India and the WorldNovember 19, 2024India, China foreign ministers advance reset in Brazil meeting
- India and the WorldNovember 19, 2024G20 launches Global Alliance against Poverty, Modi champions Global South
- India and the WorldNovember 18, 2024Modi visit: India, Nigeria bolster strategic, economic ties
