Intersection Association calls for reviewing laws deemed threat to freedom of expression

Intersection Association for Rights and Freedoms called on the legislative and judicial authorities, as well as civil society activists and political parties, to work towards the repeal and revision of laws currently in force in Tunisia. The association deemed these laws outdated and unsuitable for the developments witnessed globally and within societies, emphasising that they do not align with the principles of human rights or the international agreements previously endorsed and ratified by Tunisia. In a statement released on Monday, the association affirmed that despite the constitutional dedication of the right to freedom of expression, it continues to face numerous violations, either through political will or a legal system containing multiple legislative provisions that empower the ruling authority to suppress this fundamental right. In this context, the legislative authority was urged to annul Decree No. 54 related to combatting electronic crimes due to the dangers it poses to the right of freedom o f expression, especially within the broader framework of rights and freedoms in Tunisia. The association argued that the decree is not in harmony with universal principles of human rights. Additionally, it called for the amendment of provisions criminalising criticism of officials, public servants, and other figures associated with public affairs, such as Articles 125 and 67 of the Penal Code. The association recommended a review and amendment of the Communications Law, particularly Article 86, which is utilised as a tool to prosecute bloggers and activists on social media, advocating for clearer wording than its current ambiguous state. On another note, the judicial authority was called upon to dismiss all charges and cease all legal proceedings against citizens who have been tried under laws that criminalise freedom of opinion and expression, especially in cases related to Decree No. 54, the number of which continues to rise since the law's enactment. Civil society components and political parties were urged to submit proposals for reforming the legislative system, particularly in the realm of rights and freedoms. Source: Agence Tunis Afrique Presse

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