On Friday 28 July, the spokesperson for the European External Action Service (EEAS) hailed the unanimous vote of those deputies present at the Assembly of Representatives of the Tunisian People for an "ambitious" law to crack down on violence against women.
In a press release, the spokesperson described the vote as a "major step forwards in the process of democratic transition". "This much-awaited text is a crucial new stage towards the full respect of human rights and equal opportunities between men and women", the EEAS spokesperson stated, adding that the legislation "translates the implementation of the Tunisian Constitution and respect for the commitments taken by Tunisia at international level for the respect and promotion of human rights".
"The European Union fully supports this process and will remain committed alongside the Tunisian people for the effective implementation of this law", the spokesperson added.
The new legislation bans a man having sexual relations with a minor from escaping punishment by marrying her. The notion of 'moral violence between two spouses' has also been introduced into the law, and victims of domestic violence will be better protected. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)