Summary:

On 4 July 2023, tensions over the growing population of irregular migrants in the coastal city of Sfax reached a peak when a Tunisian man was stabbed to death, a crime attributed to a group of Cameroonian migrants.

The stabbing was proceeded by weeks of rising tensions which included visits by senior Tunisians officials to the Sfax area, including President Kais Saied, as well as large-scale protests.

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In preceding days, photos and videos purportedly depicting violence between groups of migrants and Tunisians circulated on social media.

Following the stabbing on 4 July, there were multiple reports of vigilante violence by groups of Tunisian residents despite a greatly increased police presence in the area. Photos and videos circulated of groups of Tunisians threatening groups of sub-Saharan Africans with makeshift weapons as they laid on the ground or stood with their hands raised in the air.

In response, the Tunisian government began a highly controversial effort to move groups of sub-Saharan African migrants to the border region with Libya. Varying reports indicated that several hundred migrants, including women and children, were bussed to the border area and left with few resources. Reports also indicated that Libyan border guards prevented their crossing into Libya.

The expulsions to the border area drew significant international criticism as well as domestic concern from many Tunisians. A number of human rights organizations called for the cessation of the desert expulsions while many Tunisians urged their fellow citizens toward humane treatment of migrants.

As anti-migrant violence spiked in Sfax, many migrants reportedly sought means to move to other Tunisians cities. Photos indicated massive lines of sub-Saharan African migrants queued at the Sfax train station seeking transit to Sousse and Tunis. Some were reportedly turned back by authorities.

Outlook:  

Tensions have been building in Sfax for months, with the coastal city often cited as a primary launch point for irregular migrants seeking refuge in Europe.

Earlier this year, Italian leaders made it clear that Sfax was the focus of their joint intelligence and interdiction efforts which have proved, to some extent, effective.

The number of migrants attempting Mediterranean crossings rose dramatically in the first half of 2023, along with interdictions which largely result in migrants being returned to Tunisia. This has led to a rapid increase in the population of irregular migrants in Tunisia and specifically in Sfax as many continue to arrive via smuggling rights through the Algerian and Libyan deserts.

Tensions are likely to remain high in coming days and weeks, particularly in and around Sfax and many local residents have expressed a sense of empowerment to protect the security of their communities. This has led to unpredictable spikes in violence, particularly in the evening hours.

Our team is continuing to watch the development of tensions related to irregular migration in Sfax and around Tunisia, particularly for potential impacts on the broader security environment.

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