The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has urged Tunisian authorities to investigate a recent attack on its affiliate, the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT).
In a statement, ITUC-Africa General Secretary, Comrade Joel Odigie, said Tunisia — a member of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and signatory to ILO Conventions — must guarantee that workers and their unions operate without fear of interference, intimidation or harassment.
He alleged that a group of unidentified individuals attempted to storm the UGTT national headquarters at Mohamed Ali Square, chanting hostile slogans and calling for the union's dissolution.
Odigie described the act as "cowardly" and a violation of ILO Conventions 87 and 98, which protect freedom of association, the right to organise and collective bargaining. He said Tunisia's ratification of the conventions binds it both legally and morally to uphold their provisions.
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He criticised the government's failure to prevent or condemn the incident, calling it a "grave dereliction" of its obligations. ITUC-Africa demanded a credible investigation into the August 2025 incident, prosecution of those involved, and public reaffirmation of Tunisia's commitment to protecting trade unions.
Odigie warned that if the government fails to act, ITUC-Africa will mobilise its members and international partners, and activate global mechanisms, including the ILO Committee on Freedom of Association, to seek justice.
He commended the UGTT leadership and members for their restraint, saying their commitment to trade union values affirms the union's historic role in championing democracy and workers' rights in Tunisia.
