Bipartisan House Democracy Partnership Co-Chairs Release Statement on the Situation in Tunisia

For Immediate Release:
July 29, 2021

CONTACTS:
Katelynn Vogt, Communications Director
Office of Rep. David Price (D-NC)
Phone: 202-225-1784

Savannah Glasgow, Press Secretary
Office of Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL)
Phone: (202) 225-5015

WASHINGTON, DC (July 29, 2021) -- Today, Chairman David Price and Co-Chair Vern Buchanan of the bipartisan House Democracy Partnership released a statement on the situation in Tunisia:

"Events in Tunisia, the lone parliamentary democracy to emerge from the Arab Spring, have given us great concern.

"While the world continues to struggle greatly with the pandemic and the resulting economic circumstances, the suspension of democratic institutions and a duly elected parliament is never the answer. The latest actions taken in Tunisia run counter to the spirit and practice of democracy and they undermine the basic premises of the U.S.-Tunisia relationship. We call on Tunisian authorities to safeguard human rights and civil liberties, allow democratically elected members of parliament to return to work, take concrete steps to create a strong and independent judiciary, and respect freedom of the press.

"Even during challenging times, the way forward must be inclusive and devoid of the divisiveness that has marred progress in Tunisia. The House Democracy Partnership has proudly and productively worked with the Assembly of the People's Representatives since the Arab Spring and stands by the continued development of a strong and independent legislature, the institution charged with representing all the people of Tunisia."