Tunisia finds itself once more extending a significant chapter in its recent history: the national state of emergency. President Kais Saied has decreed a further eleven-month extension, pushing the measure’s expiration date all the way to December 31st of this year. This decision, quietly announced in the official gazette, signals the continuation of heightened security protocols across the North African nation.
For many, the concept of a ‘state of emergency’ might seem temporary, a response to an immediate crisis. However, for Tunisia, it’s become a long-running reality. The country first entered this extraordinary period back in 2015, following a devastating attack that tragically resulted in the deaths of several presidential guards. That initial act of violence set in motion a series of extensions, each one reflecting ongoing security concerns and a complex domestic landscape.
Under a state of emergency, authorities are typically granted expanded powers, which can include restrictions on public gatherings, increased surveillance, and easier arrests. While these measures are often justified by the need to combat terrorism and maintain public order, their prolonged use inevitably sparks discussions about the balance between national security and the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens. For a nation that has been a beacon of democratic transition in the region, the persistent nature of this emergency highlights the difficult tightrope walk its leadership faces.
As Tunisia continues its journey, marked by both progress and persistent challenges, the extension of the state of emergency serves as a poignant reminder of the complex forces at play. It underscores the fragility of security in a turbulent region and the enduring efforts required to build a stable, prosperous, and truly open society. The coming months will undoubtedly see continued debate and observation as the country navigates this extended period.
Source: https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/01/tunisia-extends-state-emergency-11-months-until-dec-31
