Swiss-Tunisian Citizen Detained for Advocating Refugee Rights in Tunisia

• Mustapha Djemali is a dual Swiss-Tunisian citizen detained for advocating for refugees.
• Human rights organizations are urgently calling for Djemali’s release.
• Djemali’s family claims Switzerland is not doing enough in his defense.

Djemali Under Scrutiny for Refugee Campaigning

Swiss-Tunisian Citizen Detained Over Refugee Advocacy Mustapha Djemali, a dual citizen of Switzerland and Tunisia, has been detained in Tunisia for over a year now, raising concern among human rights advocates. The 81-year-old is facing allegations of committing an “act against the state” due to his efforts in advocating for refugees. The situation sheds light on the increasing challenges faced by individuals who assist refugees amid harsh policies implemented by the Tunisian government.

International Outcry Calls for Djemali’s Freedom

Tough Migration Policies Result in Arrests Reports indicate that Djemali’s detention stems from the stringent migration policy enforced by Tunisian President Kais Saied, particularly against refugees and their advocates. The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) says it is paying attention to Djemali’s case and is working to support him, although their ability to assist dual nationals is limited according to their statement. Human rights organizations, like Amnesty International, are highlighting his dire conditions in custody, including living in overcrowded cells which pose serious health risks for him and others, declaring this situation as part of a broader suppression of civil society in Tunisia.

Family Voices Concerns Over Swiss Response

Family Requests Greater Efforts from Switzerland Mustapha Djemali had a reputable background as a former member of the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) and was actively involved in finding accommodations for asylum seekers in Tunisia prior to his arrest. His organization had been placing ads seeking housing for refugees, which, in the current political climate, has been interpreted as an act against state authority. The family of Djemali, residing in Geneva, asserts that Switzerland needs to intensify its efforts to secure his release, expressing discontent over perceived inaction.

In summary, Mustapha Djemali, a dual Swiss-Tunisian citizen, remains detained in Tunisia due to his advocacy for refugees amidst a backdrop of harsh state policies against such activities. Human rights groups are pressing for his release, while his family demands further action from Switzerland. The implications of his case reveal the significant challenges faced by those who aid refugees, amidst tightening asylum laws in Tunisia.