Tunisia: Anti-government protests continue /update 8

Event

Minor clashes were reported in districts of the capital Tunis, including Kram and Daouar Hicher, overnight January 14-15 following a day of mass protests coinciding with the 7th anniversary of the beginning of the Arab Spring. The Tunisian Ministry of the Interior announced on January 15 that at least 937 people had been arrested for vandalism, violence, and theft since the ongoing wave of protests began in early January.

Additional protests, heightened security measures, and associated transportation disruptions are expected in Tunis and in other Tunisian cities in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Violent protests against rising consumer prices have shaken Tunisia in recent weeks, leaving one person dead and dozens of others injured. The 2018 budget, which includes austerity measures as well as an increase of the value-added tax (VAT), has generated a general rise in consumer prices since its implementation on January 1. According to one study, Tunisians will have to spend an extra TND 300 (USD 120) per month to cover the rise in prices, almost as much as the national monthly minimum wage (TND 357) for those working 48 hours per week.

In response to the previous week of demonstrations, the government announced a series of reforms on January 13. Poor families will receive more financial aid per month (from the TND 150 [USD 60] currently received to between TND 180 and 210 [USD 72-84]) and will be guaranteed housing; all citizens will be guaranteed healthcare.

Advice

Individuals in Tunisia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of potential violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.