Tunisian National Bar Association Announces Series of Protests
The Tunisian National Bar Association has announced a series of protests in several courts across the country, denouncing the deterioration of working conditions in Tunisian jurisdictions and the lack of response from the Ministry of Justice to their demands.
Background
In a statement published on May 13, 2026, the Bar Association indicated that these actions come after discussions held during the periodic session of the Council and following the mobilization observed during the extraordinary general assembly on May 1, 2026. Lawyers believe that the courts are experiencing significant deterioration due to the lack of infrastructure, absence of adequate equipment, and shortage of human resources in several jurisdictions. The statement also mentions difficulties affecting the functioning of the judicial service and the conditions of practicing the profession.
Demands and Response
The National Bar Association claims to have prioritized dialogue to find solutions to reform the public justice service, but considers that its demands have not received a concrete response. Faced with this situation, a series of regional strikes has been decided. Lawyers will also wear a red armband in the courts starting from Monday, May 18, 2026, to express their rejection of what they describe as the "marginalization of the profession's demands".
Protest Schedule
The announced calendar includes:
- A general presence strike in the courts of Greater Tunis, Nabeul, and Zaghouan on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
- A strike in the courts of Bizerte, Béja, Jendouba, Le Kef, and Siliana on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
- A strike in the courts of Sfax, Gafsa, Tozeur, and Sidi Bouzid on Monday, May 25, 2026.
- A strike in the courts of Médenine, Gabès, Kébili, and Tataouine on Monday, June 1, 2026.
- A strike in the courts of Sousse, Monastir, Mahdia, Kairouan, and Kasserine on Monday, June 8, 2026.
National Strike
The Bar Association has also announced a national general strike in all courts of the Republic on Thursday, June 18, 2026, with a rally planned at the Palace of Justice in Tunis.
