Tunisia Shuts Down Large Migrant Camps

Tunisia has dismantled migrant camps housing thousands of undocumented migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, following social media campaigns against them, Arab News reported.

Approximately 20,000 migrants had set up tents in El-Amra and Jebeniana. National guard spokesman Houcem Eddine Jebabli reported that around 4,000 people left one cleared camp, with some dispersing into the countryside. The camps had caused local anger, leading residents to take legal action over the occupation of olive groves.

Tunisian President Kais Saied has urged the International Organization for Migration to expedite voluntary returns for irregular migrants. Tunisia has become a key departure point for migrants aiming to reach Europe. Italy plans to invest €20 million in projects to assist Algeria, Libya, and Tunisia in repatriating irregular migrants. The initiative aims to strengthen administrative capacities and ensure the rights of migrants, benefiting around 3,300 vulnerable individuals. Meanwhile, Libyan authorities announced the suspension of 10 international humanitarian groups for allegedly planning to settle migrants.