US Bill Targeting Tunisia Reignites Debate on Interference and Double Standards in Human Rights
A proposed US bill aimed at Tunisia has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it punishes the country for its support of Palestine and undermines the US's supposed commitment to democracy.
Presented as "Restoring Democracy in Tunisia"
The bill, introduced by two US lawmakers, targets Tunisia for its unwavering support of Gaza, while other, more compliant states, escape criticism. The initiative is believed to be the result of pressure from the Zionist lobby on the international stage.
Questions and Concerns
Do the US want to see extremists and terrorists take over Tunisia? Where were they when terrorism was crippling the economy and stifling fundamental freedoms? Where were they when Tunisia was mourning its martyrs among the military and security forces? And where were they when the country was being stigmatized as one of the main suppliers of terrorists worldwide? Do the US want to plunge Tunisia back into chaos?
Tunisia's Response
In the face of these questions and concerns, Tunisia has not remained passive. The reaction was immediate. MP Besma Hammami announced that the Parliament would prepare an initiative to "restore American democracy" as of next October, thus affirming national sovereignty and reminding that the Tunisian people will not accept any lessons in democracy.
A Long History of Interference
For the Echaâb movement, this bill is part of a long tradition of US interference in the Middle East, from Syria to Iraq, via Libya and Sudan. Echaâb calls for the creation of a national progressive front to defend Tunisian sovereignty, improve the socio-economic situation, and build a democratic model faithful to the aspirations of the people.
Contrasting US Policies
The contrast with US internal policy is striking. Former President Barack Obama recently denounced human rights abuses in the US: intimidation of universities, pressure on the judiciary, and repression of freedom of expression. These violations would be deemed unacceptable on American soil but are imposed on other countries under the guise of promoting democracy.
Double Standards
On one hand, Washington demands democracy and respect for human rights; on the other, it pressures states that refuse to abandon their principles, particularly their support for Palestine. In the background, the emergence of a new world order that challenges US supremacy can also be observed. This blatant double standard shows that human rights are applied selectively, according to geopolitical interests and international pressures.
A Potential Opportunity for Tunisia
In the face of this attempt at pressure, Tunisia could emerge stronger. The US bill, far from weakening the country, could consolidate its determination to build an authentic democratic model, resistant to sanctions and external lessons, while reaffirming its solidarity with oppressed peoples, particularly those of Gaza.
A Final Reminder
Finally, it is worth recalling that the majority of UN experts believe that the US does not set an example in terms of respect for human rights. This is evident in the joint condemnation by 79 UN countries of the latest US sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC).
