Tunisia Begins Evacuation of Illegal Migrant Camps

Tunisia has commenced the evacuation of unauthorized migrant camps as part of a government initiative to restore order within the country. Thousands of individuals have already left these makeshift shelters located in the central coastal region near Jebeniana, according to a spokesperson for the National Guard, Houcem Eddine Jebali. The evacuation process began on Thursday and is expected to continue in the coming days.

Approximately 20,000 migrants had settled in several illegal camps amidst olive groves, as reported by Jebali. He emphasized the necessity of eliminating all forms of disorder, indicating that investigations have been initiated against several migrants for occupying private property. Many of those affected, primarily hailing from countries south of the Sahara, have reportedly dispersed as a result of these actions.

Vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, have been handed over to health authorities for appropriate care. Furthermore, numerous migrants have expressed a desire to return to their home countries. Tunisia is recognized as a key transit point for refugees aiming to reach Europe, and the situation has drawn the attention of international bodies.

In a recent address, Tunisian President Kais Saied urged the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to enhance efforts supporting the voluntary return of migrants who entered the country illegally. Earlier this year, he criticized the arrival of large numbers of migrants, claiming it posed a threat to Tunisia's demographic composition. In response to this situation, many refugees have faced threats, prompting their home countries' embassies to facilitate the return of their citizens.