Tunisian authorities have banned members of the European Parliament from entering the country. They had ‘several concerns’, it was argued. On Thursday, a group led by German EPP MP Michael Gahler was expected to travel to Tunis to get an idea of the political situation.
The EU had previously concluded a migration agreement with the Tunisian government. Meetings were planned with civil society, the opposition and trade unions. The European Parliament’s five-member delegation condemned the Tunisian authorities’ decision in a statement. The behavior of not allowing them to enter the country is unprecedented since the democratic revolution in the country in 2011.
As reported, the EU and Tunisia concluded a comprehensive migration treaty in mid-July aimed at preventing people from entering the EU irregularly. In addition, the joint fight against smugglers must be improved. Tunisia, which is plagued by a severe economic crisis and high unemployment, will receive several hundred million euros.
Criticism as a reason for rejection?
A reason for canceling the trip could be the statements that several MPs made in a debate this week (see video above). For example, the Social Democrats criticized the agreement and accused the government in Tunis of mistreating refugees from sub-Saharan Africa.
Source: Krone
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