The European Union has expressed concern over Tunisia’s decision to uphold lengthy prison sentences against dozens of opposition figures, lawyers, activists and journalists in a case critics say was designed to silence dissent.
In a statement issued Friday, the EU said Tunisia’s Court of Cassation had upheld the convictions on September 3 in the so-called “plot against state security” trial.
It questioned whether defendants’ rights to a fair trial had been fully respected and urged Tunisian authorities to safeguard human rights, freedom of expression and judicial guarantees.
The EU also criticized the use of contacts between the defendants and foreign diplomats, including European diplomats—as evidence or grounds for prosecution.
It did not identify the EU citizens involved, but said some European nationals were among those convicted.
According to Reuters, the Cassation Court upheld sentences of up to 45 years against opposition leaders, lawyers and businessmen.
Forty people were charged with conspiring to overthrow President Kais Saied, while 20 defendants who fled abroad were tried in absentia.
The ruling represents the final stage of proceedings and cannot be appealed, Reuters reported.
Human Rights Watch said the court upheld the convictions of 34 people for “conspiracy against state security” and terrorism-related offenses.
The sentences range from five to 45 years. Amnesty International said those imprisoned include human-rights lawyer Ayachi Hammami, opposition figure Ahmed Nejib Chebbi and activist Chaima Issa.
Rights groups have condemned the proceedings as politically motivated and cited alleged due-process violations, including the remote participation of defendants in hearings and restrictions on their ability to attend their own trials.
They say the case forms part of a broader crackdown that followed President Saied’s suspension of parliament and concentration of power in 2021.
Tunisian authorities reject that characterization. Saied has maintained that the judiciary is independent, while Tunisia’s justice minister has said the defendants sought to destabilize the country and overthrow the president.
Reuters also reported that Saied previously described the accused politicians as “traitors and terrorists.”
The EU said it remains committed to its partnership with Tunisia and support for the Tunisian people, but called on the authorities to restore the conditions needed for political pluralism and independent voices to participate in the country’s future.
