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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2025/2988(RSP))

On the rule of law and human rights situation in Tunisia, particularly the case of Sonia Dahmani

B-10-2025-0538

on behalf of the PPE Group · Rapporteur: Sebastião Bugalho, Michael Gahler, Željana Zovko, Isabel Wiseler-Lima, Tomas Tobé, Antonio López-Istúriz White, Andrey Kovatchev, Danuše Nerudová, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Tomáš Zdechovský, Reinhold Lopatka, Wouter Beke, Inese Vaidere, Loránt Vincze, Liudas Mažylis, Jessica Polfjärd, Michał Wawrykiewicz

✦ In short · AI summary of this text, generated 4 Sept 2026

Written by a language model from the full text only; every figure comes from the text. The paragraph links open the paragraph a statement rests on — check the text itself before relying on it.

This resolution concerns the rule of law and human rights in Tunisia, focusing on the case of journalist and lawyer Sonia Dahmani, and calls for her release. It expresses concern about her detention conditions and health, urges Tunisian authorities to comply with international law and the EU-Tunisia Association Agreement, and stresses the importance of judicial independence and democratic standards.

Key points

  1. Calls for the release of Sonia Dahmani.
  2. Expresses concern about her detention conditions and health, and draws attention to her family's statements.
  3. Calls on Tunisian authorities to comply with international human rights law and the EU-Tunisia Association Agreement, and to allow adequate health care and basic necessities.
  4. Stresses the importance of a well-functioning judicial system, rule of law, and independence of the judiciary.
  5. Underlines the critical role of legal professionals in safeguarding the rule of law and judicial integrity.
  6. Reiterates that freedom of expression and association and an independent judiciary are guaranteed by Tunisia's constitution and UN conventions.
  7. Stresses the importance for Tunisia to commit to democratic standards, human rights, and the rule of law.
  8. Welcomes the 2023 EU-Tunisia Memorandum of Understanding and recognizes Tunisia's role in Mediterranean security and stability.
  9. Highlights Tunisia's position as a key interlocutor in tackling regional challenges.

Who is affected

  • Sonia Dahmani, a Tunisian lawyer and journalist, who is detained and faces multiple legal proceedings.
  • Tunisian authorities, who are called upon to ensure her rights and uphold the rule of law.

Figures and deadlines

  • Sonia Dahmani was arrested on 11 May 2024 and has been sentenced to four years and two months in prison.
  • Her total sentence could reach up to twenty-four years.