NGOs sound alarm over Tunisia prison deaths due to heatwave
Rights groups report that at least 23 prisoners have died in Tunisia due to extreme heatwaves and poor detention conditions. Authorities have not confirmed these figures, citing a lack of forensic evidence, while NGOs call for independent investigations into the prison system.
Why it matters
The reports highlight severe human rights concerns and the impact of climate change on vulnerable populations within the Tunisian penal system.
At least 23 prisoners have died in Tunisia in recent weeks due to extreme heat, according to rights advocates, who have long condemned harsh detention conditions made worse by overcrowding.
Authorities have yet to release figures for prison deaths this summer, with an official saying no death could be attributed to heat without confirmation from forensic doctors.
Yet the Tunisian League for Human Rights (LTDH) documented 23 deaths based on information from doctors, lawyers and relatives of prisoners who died in jail from the heat, its president Bassem Trifi told AFP.
Tunisia has suffered high temperatures in recent weeks, with residents struggling with long power outages and water cuts.
Among the dead detainees was businessman Lazhar Sta, his daughter said. Another was a 24-year-old student, according to local media.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in