A reliable source from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad confirmed to TAP on Monday that the protection of the rights of Tunisians abroad stands atop the department's priorities. The source asserted that numerous mechanisms and institutions are actively addressing this concern. It notably cited agreements in the realms of migration and employment, both bilaterally and multilaterally, in addition to the initiatives undertaken by diplomatic and consular missions abroad. Continuous engagement with foreign embassies and consulates in Tunisia further contributes to this comprehensive approach. Tunisia has consistently and emphatically rejected any inhumane and discriminatory treatment towards Tunisians, regardless of the motives behind such actions, the source pointed out. Earlier in the day, the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES) highlighted that Tunisian migrants in Europe are confronting a surge in racism, Islamophobia, and restrictive laws curtailing their ri ghts. The FTDES further noted instances of "hate campaigns by fascist and racist political groups." On the occasion of International Migrants Day, the Forum asserted that undocumented Tunisian migrants in Italy, France, and Germany are subjected to collective expulsions lacking sufficient legal safeguards to contest expulsion decisions. These actions are executed based on bilateral agreements signed by various governments. The Forum additionally called for prioritising human rights over security considerations, emphasising that any migration-related policy or cooperation must give precedence to protecting the lives and human rights of migrants. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs source explained that the department automatically monitors the situation of Tunisians in prisons or detention centres across various European countries, with a particular focus on Italy. Furthermore, during multiple engagements with Italian authorities, Tunisia's representatives abroad consistently emphasised the need for improving the conditions of Tunisians detained in Italian prisons or those who have entered Italian territory illicitly. Periodic visits are organised by consular missions to prisons and detention centres in Italy, streamlining direct contact with Tunisians, inquiries into their living and detention conditions, and close monitoring of potential cases of abuse. The source recalled recent official meetings between the Tunisian consul in Palermo and local authorities in Sicily, aimed at advocating for the rights of Tunisian migrants in Lampedusa's reception centres and pressing for improvements in their living conditions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs receives numerous Tunisians daily seeking to establish contact with relatives in Italian prisons or detention centres. The department, through its overseas missions, actively works to address their concerns. The ministry collaborates with partners, particularly those imposing entry visas on Tunisians, to explore means of easing such measures and removing obstacles hind ering the principle of freedom of movement. The source emphasised the importance of preserving the dignity of visa applicants and providing them with optimal reception conditions. Moreover, the department is engaged in negotiations with several countries to wave visa requirements and explore more practical approaches that facilitate the movement of people. Source: Agence Tunis Afrique Presse