ZOUHOUR MECHERGUI

Tunisia- In 2017, the Tunisian Parliament adopted Law 58, protecting women from violence against women. Despite this law, there is a rise in violence against women in the country.

Afwa Al-Maisaoui, a human rights activist and legal coordinator at the Women First Association, feminist and non-profit organization dedicated to promoting gender equality and defending women's rights in Sidi Bouzid Governorate, thinks that customs and traditions and ineffective implementation of the law cause the rise in gender-based violence in the country.

Awareness-raising activities

Women, especially in rural areas, are unaware of their rights, Afwa Al-Maisaoui said, recalling that the Tunisian Parliament adopted Law 58 in 2017. “Women living in rural areas are unaware of the law. Although some are aware, they do not report violence due to social pressure. The Women First Association carries out awareness-raising activities to reach all women. The association also carried out activities for women with special needs.”

Criticizing the lack of centers that provide help and shelters to women, Afwa Al-Maisaoui said, “In recent years, the rates of violence against women have doubled in Tunisia. Most women have to endure violence because they do not have economic independence. The association also promotes women’s economic empowerment so that women achieve their economic independence.”

Afwa Al-Maisaoui also called on Tunisian authorities to implement Law 58 effectively.

“The law should be implemented effectively in order to reduce this phenomenon. Women should expose the harassers and abusers at work, at home or in the streets. There are women struggling for the effective implementation of law.”