During the first conviction of Tunisian blogger Jabeur Mejri in 2012, the S&D Group had voiced concern about respect for freedom of expression in the country.
Victor Boştinaru, vice-president of the S&D Group responsible for foreign affairs, said:
“We welcome the presidential pardon of Jabeur Mejri and our Group will always remain vigilant of the situation of the media, freedom of the press and freedom of expression in Tunisia, especially in this election.”
As Tunisians prepare to vote in parliamentary elections on 26 October, several incidents are hampering the smooth running of the election campaign and could undermine the credibility of the transition process.
Pier Antonio Panzeri, President of the Maghreb delegation and member of the European Union's Election Observation Mission, reiterated:
“The participation of all Tunisians is crucial to ensuring the dynamic of democratic transition set in motion after 14 January. National and international observers will all play their role before, during and after the elections. The success of these elections also remains the responsibility of all stakeholders. The European Union will continue to support Tunisia and the Tunisian people in their aspirations for transparency, equality, freedom and dignity.”
(We will participate in election observation in Tunisia)
