Tunisia

July 2008 | Ratings Update

In a surprise move, the Tunisian authorities have released Slim Boukhdhir, a journalist who had been imprisoned on charges of violating public decency. When he was sentenced seven months ago, the charges were widely viewed as motivated by Boukhdhir's repeated criticism of the Tunisian authorities. In our long-term political risk ratings, Tunisia scores 0 in the media freedom category, reflecting our view that the government exercises significant power over editorial decisions, even among those publications that are not state-owned. The National Union of Tunisian Journalists (SNJT) welcomed Boukhdhir's release, saying that it was due in part to its many appeals

If you would like to subscribe to North Africa Monitor and gain instant access to this article, please click here to subscribe.

If you would like to take a trial to North Africa Monitor please click on the trial link below.