United Nations experts issued a stark warning on Monday about the treatment of migrants, refugees, and victims of human trafficking in Tunisia. They highlighted significant human rights violations occurring during rescue operations at sea and transfers to border areas with Algeria and Libya.
In a statement, the experts described “shocking reports” detailing dangerous maneuvers during the interception of migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers at sea. They reported instances of physical violence, including beatings and threats involving firearms, as well as the removal of engines and fuel from boats, leading to capsizing.
From January to July, 189 individuals reportedly lost their lives during attempted Mediterranean crossings, while 265 died during interception operations. Additionally, 95 individuals remain missing, raising serious concerns about safety in the region.
The experts noted that for those “rescued” by coastguards, including victims of trafficking, conditions reportedly worsen upon disembarkation at ports. Reports indicate arbitrary forcible transfers to Tunisia’s borders occur with excessive use of force and without access to humanitarian assistance.
“Migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, including children and pregnant women, are allegedly taken to desert areas bordering Algeria and Libya. They are reportedly fired upon by border guards if they attempt to return,” the experts stated.
The signatories of the statement included special rapporteurs focusing on human trafficking, contemporary racism, migrants’ rights, and human rights defenders. UN special rapporteurs are independent experts mandated by the Human Rights Council and do not speak on behalf of the United Nations.
Tunisia and Libya serve as key departure points for migrants, primarily from sub-Saharan African countries, who risk dangerous Mediterranean crossings in search of better lives in Europe. Each year, tens of thousands of people attempt this perilous journey, often aiming for Italy, located only 150 kilometers from Tunisia.
According to the UN’s International Organization for Migration, more than 30,309 migrants have died in the Mediterranean over the past decade, including over 3,000 fatalities in the previous year.
