Intersection Association for Rights and Freedoms strongly condemns the decision to suspend the activities of the Social Accountability Association for 30 days, seeing it as a new chapter in an ongoing pattern of systematic restrictions on civic space in Tunisia and a direct targeting of associations and organizations that play a monitoring and human rights role.

This decision cannot be separated from the broader context of increasing pressure on civil society actors and human rights defenders through judicial proceedings, administrative restrictions, decisions of suspension of activity, and other forms of interference, which constitute a threat to the freedom of association and civic engagement, both of which are fundamental pillars of any democratic system that respects rights and freedoms.

Intersection Association for Rights and Freedoms affirms that the targeting of the Social Accountability Association infringes upon a legitimate and fundamental right: the right of citizens to freely organize, participate in public affairs, and hold state institutions and public policies accountable. This decision also constitutes a clear violation of the guarantees provided under Decree-Law No. 88 governing associations, in addition to conflicting with Tunisia’s international commitments regarding freedom of association and civic engagement.

The continued targeting of associations and organizations threatens one of the most significant achievements of the post-2011 period: the existence of a free and independent civil society capable of fulfilling its watchdog, human rights, and social roles without undue interference or restrictions. It also contributes to creating a climate of intimidation affecting activists and civil society organizations, thereby undermining the foundations of civic participation and democracy.

Accordingly, Intersection Association for Rights and Freedoms expresses its full solidarity with Social Accountability Association and reiterates its support for the association’s right to continue its activities and defend itself through all available legal and judicial avenues. It also further calls for the immediate reversal of the suspension decision and an end to all forms of restrictions and targeting directed at civil society organizations in Tunisia.