News from Civsy, based on generative AI tools and retrieval-augumented real time data searchIn Tunisia, artists face growing harassment and censorship, yet they continue to reclaim public spaces through creative expression. Ballet dancer Nesrine Ben Arbia performs in historic locations, resisting conservative pressures. Despite threats from extremist groups and restrictive laws, artists persist in challenging societal norms. Initiatives like Street Art in Médenine and the Dream City Festival (partner of Mimeta) highlight art’s power to inspire change in Tunisia’s evolving political landscape.
Tunisia, a country that once held high hopes for democratic transition following the 2011 Arab Spring, is now grappling with increasing challenges to artistic freedom and expression. Artists, particularly those pushing boundaries in public spaces, face harassment from extremist groups and legal enforcement that threatens their creative endeavours.
Nesrine Ben Arbia, a Tunisian ballet dancer, has been at the forefront of reclaiming public spaces for art. She performs ballet in historic locations across Tunisia, aiming to break down barriers between art and the general public. Despite facing societal challenges and harassment from Salafist groups, Ben Arbia remains committed to her mission. Her performances are not just about dance; they are a form of resistance against the constraints imposed by conservative forces. Ben Arbia has carried out performances and filming sessions in multiple places such as the old city, La Marsa, Sidi Bou Said, El Kef, and Mahdia. She prefers spots that are full of life, history, and stories, using authentic Tunisian architecture as a backdrop for her performances
Tunisia's political landscape is marked by ongoing tensions between secular and Islamist groups. This divide has led to a complex environment were artists and intellectuals face intimidation and violence. Salafist movements have targeted art exhibits and public events deemed contrary to their religious beliefs. The impact on freedom of expression is significant, with many artists facing challenges in expressing themselves freely due to fear of backlash
The legal system in Tunisia has become increasingly restrictive, with the government using laws to silence dissenting voices. Lawyers defending political opponents have faced judicial harassment, highlighting the erosion of judicial independence. This climate of repression affects not only lawyers but also artists and activists who dare to express themselves freely
Despite these challenges, artists in Tunisia continue to innovate and push boundaries. For instance, in March 2021, young artists in Médenine transformed a street into a public art space to raise awareness about gender violence. This initiative included street art, exhibitions, and musical performances, highlighting the role of cities in implementing laws against violence and promoting cultural change5.
The Dream City Festival has been running since 2007 in the old city of Tunis. It features contemporary art, dance, music, and theatre, aiming to rediscover the city's hidden stories and create harmony with its urban fabric. The 9th edition of the festival took place from September 22 to October 8, 2023, showcasing the resilience of Tunisia's artistic community
Tunisia's artists are at the forefront of a battle for creative freedom and expression. Despite harassment from extremist groups and legal enforcement aimed at censorship, they continue to innovate and challenge societal norms. The work of artists like Nesrine Ben Arbia and initiatives like Street Art in Médenine and Dream City Festival highlight the power of art to transform public spaces and promote cultural change. As Tunisia navigates its complex political landscape, the resilience of its artistic community remains a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and expressive society.
Sources:
medfeminiswiya.net: "Female Tunisian artists reclaim the street from the grip of extremist movements"
norskpen.no: "Tunisia: Islamister utfordrer kunstnerisk ytringsfrihet"
spiegel.de: "Salafist Intimidation Campaign Threatens Young Democracy in Tunisia"
cbldf.org: "Artistic Censorship Continues to Plague Post-Revolutionary Tunisia"
citiesalliance.org: "Tunisia: Street Art to Raise Awareness of Violence Against Women"
lartrue.org: "Dream City 2023 Festival: discover the programme!"
